14 Jan 2025

Cases of violence and brutality remain a concern in Botswana. These includes a rising trend where children become murder victims, with perpetrators often being those entrusted to protect them, including caregivers, guardians, parents, and relatives, says Botswana Police Service Commissioner, Ms Dinah Marathe.

Ms Marathe told members of the media during an update on Operation Pabalesego in Gaborone yesterday that murder cases rose from 20 in 2023 to 25 between 2024 and early 2025.

“Of these, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) accounted for 40 per cent, where 10 victims were female, while one was male,” she said.

Despite the statistics, Ms Marathe said there was a general decrease in GBV-related offences.

However, she emphasised that addressing violence and brutality required a comprehensive approach beyond just government and law enforcement interventions.

 “There is an urgent need to understand the root causes of violence to develop effective prevention measures,” she said.

Ms Marathe also mentioned the importance of enhancing provision of medical and psychosocial care for victims through a coordinated multi-sector approach.

She said leveraging technology for awareness and reporting was also crucial, with Botswana police using social media and digital platforms to raise awareness on GBV and child abuse prevention.

The police commissioner also called for the establishment of one-stop service centres where victims could access police officers, doctors, psychologists, and other essential services without moving between multiple providers.  ENDS