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On curbing domestic violence
The Parrot is disturbed; extremely disturbed; disturbed not today, but for sometime now. My “disturbation-ness” increases almost exponentially every time I am unfortunately exposed to news that reports of someone who suffered as a result of domestic violence. Almost in every instance it’s a female. Not that males are not affected, but 9 out of 10 times, well more like 9.99 out of the same 10 are females.
Only two days ago a twenty-two-year-old mother of three, Nafeeza Khan of Goed Fortuin, was allegedly fatally stabbed by her reputed husband. The day before, it was reported that eighteen-year-old Manella Hackette was reportedly slashed across her throat by her jilted boyfriend. These types of crimes, while not unique to Guyana, are frequent. It is of course higher than what is actually reported to the police; many reports never make it to the station. Herein lies my concern.
The police are overwhelmed sometimes with other crime related issues. They are also understaffed. However, it is inexcusable for some ranks not to take seriously reported cases. I say this because very often after someone would have paid with his/her life, you hear of reports, which were reportedly made to the police, being ignored. In the case of Ms. Khan, neighbours alluded to this, being given the “royal runaround” by the police. I can understand why some ranks seem apprehensive since, in fairness to those who would take action, some victims are unwilling to follow through.
This may be for various reasons; cultural and financial readily comes to mind. However, in my opinion, the police have a responsibility to investigate ALL reported cases of domestic violence. Too often, ignored reports have led to the loss of life of an abused victim. The Ministry of Human Services and Social Security has procedures and facilities to assist victims. Those who access these services are basically given a new lease on life. If one were to become au fait with some of the stories reported there, it would be difficult for your food in the process of digestion not to defy gravity.
The Ministry can only do so much. The police must extend their “zero tolerance” campaign to include domestic violence. I am aware of some of the difficulties regarding victims not wanting to testify and related legal ramifications. However, I feel if police stations become more proactive in their approach on the issue, and are serious about it, perpetrators would at least be affected physiologically knowing that the cops are not hesitant to act. In the same vein, victims must be encouraged not to succumb to sentimental reasons as it relates to those abusing them. Here again the police can help by being able to provide the first level of counselling needed.
The worst thing that can happen, and maybe it is happening in some areas, is for the police to be seen as not wanting to deal with the issue. This is unfortunate and is a physiological deterrent to the victims and a sign of “encouragement” to the perpetrators. The intention here is not to castigate the police, but to bring into focus once again the need for a more intensified approach to help curb this dastardly act against our women folk. I know there are ranks who are passionate about helping to rid this scourge from our society; they need to be encouraged and empowered to do this. It can be done. Your efforts would not go unnoticed. Squawk! Squawk!
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