PROJECT: CRIME AGAINST WOMEN IN SOUTH AFRICA

isabels39
May 9
5 min read

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In South Africa, personal safety remains a critical issue, especially for women

who are disproportionately affected by violence and crime.

Recent statistics underscore the severity of gender-based violence (GBV) in the country:

Murder Rates: Between July and September 2024, 957 women were murdered, marking an 8.6% increase from the same period in 2023.
Attempted Murders: In the same quarter, 1,567 women were victims of attempted murder, up from 1,514 in 2023.
Assault Cases: There were 14,366 reported cases of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm against women during this period.
Prevalence of GBV: A comprehensive study revealed that 35.5% of women in South Africa have experienced physical and/or sexual violence.

These figures highlight the pervasive nature of GBV and its deep-rooted impact on South African society.

The increasing rates of violence against women emphasise

the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address and mitigate these crimes.

Some predators target their victims by exploiting everyday environments like public spaces, parking areas, and quiet residential streets. The threat continues daily, amplified by modern vulnerabilities such as social media, isolated work environments,

and the movement of young women across cities for education and employment.

Renowned security specialist Mr. Mike Bolhuis of Specialised Security Services has frequently been consulted for expert advice. His work sheds light on criminals' evolving tactics and the importance of vigilance, community involvement,

and education in preventing victimisation.

VULNERABLE GROUPS AND SITUATIONS:

FEMALE STUDENTS ON CAMPUS:
- Students walking between classes, visiting libraries at night, or attending social events are often targeted, especially in poorly lit or secluded areas.
WOMEN WORKING LATE:
- Women alone in offices, hospitals, retail, or service industries late at night face risks during commutes or when locking up facilities.
DOMESTIC WORKERS AND HELPERS:
- They often travel early or late and work in isolated homes, and they may encounter unsafe travel routes or exploitative employers.
WOMEN USING PUBLIC TRANSPORT:
- Taxi ranks, train stations, and bus stops are known hotspots for harassment, theft, and worse.
WOMEN IN SOCIAL SETTINGS:
- Nightclubs, bars, or even family gatherings become risky environments, particularly where alcohol is involved.
WOMEN LIVING ALONE:
- Single women may be stalked or targeted by intruders, particularly if their routines are predictable.

GENERAL SAFETY MEASURES TO MITIGATE RISK:

STAY ALERT AND AWARE:
- Always be conscious of your surroundings.
- Avoid distractions like excessive phone use when walking or waiting in public.
TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS:
- If something feels off, do not ignore it.
- Leave the situation, ask for help, or call someone.
USE WELL-LIT ROUTES:
- Whether on foot or driving, always choose busy, illuminated routes, even if they take longer.
AVOID ISOLATION:
- Do not walk or drive alone late at night if you can help.
- Use buddy systems or alert someone when you leave and arrive.
CHECK YOUR VEHICLE:
- Check the back seat and around the car before getting in.
- Keep doors locked while driving and avoid stopping in unsafe areas.
CONTROL PERSONAL INFORMATION:
- Do not overshare on social media.
- Avoid posting your location in real-time or revealing routines.
EMERGENCY APPS:
- Install safety apps that share your location with trusted contacts in real-time.
DEFENSIVE ITEMS:
- Carry pepper spray or personal alarms and know how to use them confidently.

DEALING WITH THREATENING SITUATIONS:

AT TRAFFIC LIGHTS OR IN TRAFFIC:
- Be wary of criminals who target motorists at stop streets and intersections.
- South Africa’s deteriorating infrastructure—marked by pothole-ridden roads and non-functioning streetlights—creates ideal conditions for crime to thrive, putting motorists and pedestrians at greater risk.
- Keep windows up, doors locked, and valuables out of sight.
ONLINE INTERACTION:
- Exercise extreme caution when interacting with people online, especially on social media platforms, dating apps, or chat forums.
- Many predators exploit digital spaces by creating fake profiles and building trust with potential victims over time.
- Their goal is often to manipulate, deceive, or lure individuals into dangerous situations, including scams, assault, trafficking, or abduction.
- Never agree to meet someone in person whom you've only interacted with online without verifying their identity and intentions.
- If you decide to meet, always choose a well-populated public space and bring a trusted friend or group.
- Avoid sharing personal information such as your home address, daily routine, or financial details.
- Trust your instincts—if anything feels suspicious or too good to be true, it probably is.
SCAM AWARENESS:
- Criminals often use emotional manipulation.
- Before sending money or believing threatening calls, verify through reliable sources like Mr. Mike Bolhuis of Specialised Security Services.

WHEN SOMEONE GOES MISSING:

South Africa sees a worrying number of missing persons cases, many of which involve women and children.
Some of these cases are later linked to trafficking, abduction, or GBV.
Act quickly:
- Report to the SAPS immediately.
- Contact organisations like Missing Children South Africa.
- Share photos and accurate details via trusted networks.

Women in South Africa face unique safety challenges, but risks can be significantly reduced with preparation, vigilance,

and community support. Awareness is the first step toward prevention. Women can protect themselves and others in their communities by staying informed and connected. Mr. Mike Bolhuis and other safety professionals urge all citizens to report threats, educate themselves, and stand in solidarity against the culture of silence surrounding violence.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

SAPS:

10111

National Human Trafficking Hotline:

0800 222 777

Childline:

0800 055 555

Mr. Mike Bolhuis (Specialised Security Services):

+27 82 447 6116

RELEVANT PROJECTS POSTED BY SSS:

Specialised Security Services invites the public to the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel.

This channel is important in delivering insights into the latest crime trends, awareness, warnings and the exposure of criminals.

How to Join the WhatsApp Channel:

1. Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp on your device.

2. Click on the link below to join the Mike Bolhuis Daily Projects WhatsApp Channel:

- https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VarjftF8PgsI4pODE929

3. Follow the prompts to join the channel.

4. Make sure you click on "Follow", then click on the "bell"-icon (🔔)

CONTACT MR MIKE BOLHUIS FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY MEASURES, PROTECTION, OR AN INVESTIGATION IF NEEDED.

ALL INFORMATION RECEIVED WILL BE TREATED IN THE STRICTEST CONFIDENTIALITY AND EVERY IDENTITY WILL BE PROTECTED.

Regards,

Mike Bolhuis

Specialist Investigators into

Serious Violent, Serious Economic Crimes & Serious Cybercrimes

PSIRA Reg. 1590364/421949

Mobile: +27 82 447 6116

E-mail: mike@mikebolhuis.co.za

Fax: 086 585 4924

Follow us on Facebook to view our projects -

https://www.facebook.com/MikeBolhuisOfficial

EXTREMELY IMPORTANT: All potential clients need to be aware that owing to the nature of our work as specialist investigators there are people who have been caught on the wrong side of the law - who are trying to discredit me - Mike Bolhuis and my organisation Specialised Security Services - to get themselves off the hook. This retaliation happens on social media and creates doubt about our integrity and ability. Doubt created on social media platforms is both unwarranted and untrue. We strongly recommend that you make up your minds concerning me and our organisation only after considering all the factual information - to the exclusion of hearsay and assumptions. Furthermore, you are welcome to address your concerns directly with me should you still be unsatisfied with your conclusions. While the internet provides a lot of valuable information, it is also a platform that distributes a lot of false information. The distribution of false information, fake news, slander and hate speech constitutes a crime that can be prosecuted by law. Your own research discretion and discernment are imperative when choosing what and what not to believe.

STANDARD RULES APPLY: Upon appointment, we require a formal mandate with detailed instructions. Please take note that should you not make use of our services – you may not under any circumstance use my name or the name of my organisation as a means to achieve whatever end.

POPI ACT 4 of 2013 South Africa: Mike Bolhuis' "Specialised Security Services" falls under Section 6 of the act. Read more here: https://mikebh.link/fntdpv