Break the silence on sexual offences!

SA – Sexual offences can come in many forms and can affect anyone. It is time to break the silence and correct the myths regarding rape and sexual offences. Remember – sexual assault is not your fault and should be reported immediately.

Myth - Rapists appear to be immoral, corrupt, or mentally disturbed.

Truth - Rapists look like any normal person and cannot be differentiated from good people.

Myth - Men rape for sex.

Truth - Rape is a weapon used to humiliate and hurt another person. Victims must seek help to heal emotional wounds.

Myth - Women can prevent being raped if they fight back.

Truth - Offenders use emotional manipulation, weapons, or threats to subdue their victims.

Myth - Most rapists are unknown to their victims.

Truth - Most rapists are known to their victims.

Myth - Women who wear revealing clothing invite rape.

Truth - Appearance and clothing have nothing to do with rape.

Myth - Victims cause their own rape by going into an unsafe area.

Truth - Victims are more likely to be sexually assaulted in their homes or in places familiar to them.

Myth - Promiscuous persons get raped.

Truth - There is no type of person that is more susceptible to rape.

South African Police Service release extracts