Key Takeaways
- A 29-year-old musician from Kraaifontein, South Africa, has opened a case of rape against a colleague after allegedly being sexually assaulted on board the MSC Musica.
- The incident occurred on December 6, and the victim reported it to HR and her agency, but was told to continue performing with the perpetrator.
- The case has been registered at Strandfontein SAPS and will be transferred to Mitchells Plain FCS for further investigation.
- MSC Cruises has confirmed that they are aware of the allegations and have a zero-tolerance policy towards any type of assault against passengers or crew members.
Introduction to the Incident
The incident in question occurred on the MSC Musica, a cruise ship where the 29-year-old musician and mother was performing as part of a music duo. The victim, who has chosen to come forward, alleges that she was sexually assaulted by her colleague, who is also a South African musician. The incident reportedly took place on December 6, just six days after the victim had boarded the ship. The victim has since opened a case of rape with the local police, who have confirmed that an investigation is underway.
The Alleged Assault
According to the victim, the alleged assault occurred when her colleague followed her to her cabin, forced his way in, and sexually assaulted her despite her protests. The victim reported the incident to HR and her agency, but was allegedly told to continue performing with the perpetrator under a "show must go on policy." This policy, which prioritizes the continuation of the show over the well-being of the crew members, has been criticized by the victim, who felt that it put her in a difficult and vulnerable position. The victim chose to involve MSC Security over Portuguese law enforcement, and a formal investigation was launched.
The Aftermath of the Incident
In the days following the alleged assault, the victim reported another incident of harassment by the same colleague. According to the victim, the colleague "attacked her in public" at the crew bar, grabbing her neck, choking her, and whispering a remark before smiling and leaving. This incident led the victim to formally report the behavior to the authorities, and she has since opened a case of rape with the local police. The police have confirmed that the case is being investigated, and the victim has been provided with support for her well-being.
The Response from MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises has confirmed that they are aware of the allegations and have a zero-tolerance policy towards any type of assault against passengers or crew members. The company has stated that they are thoroughly investigating the incident and have provided the victim with every level of support for her well-being. However, the victim has criticized the company’s response, alleging that she was told to continue performing with the perpetrator despite her protests. The company has not commented further on the incident, citing the ongoing investigation.
The Victim’s Emotional Struggle
The victim has spoken out about the emotional struggle she has faced since the incident. She has stated that she feels anxious and nervous, with an underlying sense of fear, and that standing up for herself has been a difficult and uncomfortable process. Despite this, the victim believes that it is necessary and important to speak up and seek justice for what happened. The victim’s bravery in coming forward has been praised by many, and her case has highlighted the need for greater support and protection for crew members who experience harassment or assault on board ships.
The Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and the police have confirmed that no arrests have been made as yet. The case has been registered at Strandfontein SAPS and will be transferred to Mitchells Plain FCS for further investigation. The victim has chosen to involve the local police, rather than Portuguese law enforcement, and has been provided with support for her well-being. The outcome of the investigation is still unclear, but the victim’s bravery in coming forward has highlighted the need for greater awareness and action to prevent harassment and assault on board ships.
