Serowe's rape, defilement cases decline amidst strong policing
Pini Bothoko | Wednesday April 29, 2026 06:00
Serowe Police Station commander, Superintendent Poloko Oteng, revealed that from January to March last year, the station recorded 38 rape cases, compared to 26 cases during the same period this year, a drop of 12 cases.
Similarly, defilement cases have also gone down. Oteng said 31 cases were recorded during the same period last year, whilst this year’s first quarter has seen 26 cases, reflecting a reduction of five cases.
Despite the decline, Oteng acknowledged that women and girls continue to bear the brunt of sexual abuse in the area. However, he expressed confidence that ongoing interventions are making an impact.
“We are encouraged by the statistics, which show that our efforts, together with the community, are bearing fruit,” he said.
Oteng attributed the reduction to a range of initiatives, including school-based awareness campaigns. He noted that police have been conducting boot camps and educational sessions in both primary and secondary schools, where learners are sensitised about sexual offences and encouraged to prioritise their education.
In addition, the police have intensified patrols in partnership with community members through cluster policing teams across villages in the Serowe policing area.
“Together with community structures such as Selelo Sa Morafe cluster policing, Selelo Sa Barui, and various mephato, we have been carrying out patrols and outreach programmes. The public has shown appreciation and has been supportive in helping to raise awareness about crime,” he said.
Oteng further explained that many rape incidents previously occurred when women were attacked whilst walking home from entertainment areas. Increased joint patrols have more boots on the ground, boosting visibility and contributing to the decline in such crimes.
He also commended the Gender and Child Protection Unit for its continued efforts, including kgotla meetings and community outreach programmes aimed at educating the public about sexual offences.
Oteng applauded community members who volunteer their time to assist crime prevention efforts.
“Their dedication shows that they care about creating a safe environment and want to live in a crime-free society,” he said.