Women’s Day| Government to ensure protection for victims of gender-based violence – Ramaphosa

PRESIDENT Cyril Ramaphosa says three important laws that will strengthen the fight against gender-based violence (GBV), give greater protection to victims of domestic violence.

The new laws, namely the Criminal and Related Matters Amendment Act, the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act and the Domestic Violence Amendment Act were signed into law earlier this year.

Addressing the National Women’s Day event held in Richmond, KwaZulu-Natal on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa said the new laws empower the police to enter premises without a warrant and, if necessary, arrest a suspect.

Under the new laws, police can also remove dangerous weapons from a suspect and complainants will be able to apply for protection orders online.

“New provisions expand the scope of the National Register of Sex Offenders, and place a legal responsibility on us all to report any sexual offences committed against vulnerable persons. There are now far stricter conditions