Key Takeaways:
- A 28-year-old woman is accused of throwing hot cooking oil on her 38-year-old soldier boyfriend during a violent argument in Polokwane.
- The couple reported to a Seshego police station to seek protection orders against each other, but the man declined to open an attempted murder case after learning they would both face arrest.
- Police completed SAPS 508 A forms and recorded the incident on the SAPS 508 B domestic violence register, as required by the courts.
- A social worker was contacted to provide psychosocial support to the couple, and a follow-up meeting is scheduled for Monday.
- The couple is expected to visit their nearest magistrate’s court to finalize their applications for protection orders.
Introduction to the Incident
A disturbing incident occurred in Polokwane on Thursday, where a 28-year-old woman allegedly threw hot cooking oil on her 38-year-old soldier boyfriend during a violent argument. The couple, who were in a romantic relationship, reported to a Seshego police station to seek protection orders against each other. The woman arrived at the station first, requesting an assault complaint be opened against her boyfriend and also asking for a protection order. This initial move by the woman suggests that she was seeking help and protection from her partner, but the situation took a turn when the man arrived at the station with severe burn wounds.
The Police Investigation
When the man arrived at the police station with burn wounds, police officers urged him to open an attempted murder case against the culprit. The man claimed that his injuries were a result of hot cooking oil being poured on him by his girlfriend. However, when he learned that both he and his girlfriend would face arrest, he declined to open a case, stating that he preferred to seek a protection order instead. This decision by the man raises questions about the complexities of domestic violence cases, where victims may not always want to pursue criminal charges against their partners. The police, however, followed protocol and completed SAPS 508 A forms, which were recorded on the SAPS 508 B domestic violence register, as required by the courts.
Response to Social Media Claims
Following suggestions on social media that officers in Seshego had refused to assist the couple, the police responded, stating that this was untrue. According to the police, the couple had opted for protection orders, and the necessary forms had been completed. The police also stated that a social worker had been contacted to provide psychosocial support to the duo, and a follow-up meeting was scheduled for Monday. It was also revealed that the viral messages on social media were not sent by the man, but by his younger brother. This highlights the importance of verifying information before sharing it on social media, as false claims can cause unnecessary panic and misinformation.
The Role of Social Workers
In line with SAPS protocols in domestic-related matters, a social worker was contacted to provide psychosocial support to the couple. The social worker played a crucial role in this case, as they were able to provide support and guidance to the couple. The social worker also confirmed that the man did not want to open a case, which suggests that the couple may be trying to resolve their issues through alternative means. The follow-up meeting scheduled for Monday will likely provide an opportunity for the social worker to continue providing support and guidance to the couple.
The Road Ahead
The estranged couple is expected to visit their nearest magistrate’s court to finalize their applications for protection orders. This will likely involve a court process, where the couple will need to provide evidence and testimony to support their applications. The outcome of this process will depend on various factors, including the evidence presented and the court’s decision. In the meantime, the couple will need to navigate the complexities of their relationship, while also seeking support and guidance from professionals. The incident highlights the need for support services and resources for individuals affected by domestic violence, as well as the importance of addressing the root causes of these incidents.
Conclusion
The incident in Polokwane highlights the complexities of domestic violence cases, where victims may not always want to pursue criminal charges against their partners. The police response to the incident, including the completion of SAPS forms and the involvement of a social worker, demonstrates the importance of following protocol and providing support to those affected by domestic violence. As the couple navigates the court process and seeks support, it is essential to remember that domestic violence is a serious issue that requires a comprehensive and supportive approach. By providing resources and support to those affected, we can work towards preventing similar incidents in the future.
