SAPS Slapped With Summons by Information Regulator After Krugersdorp Assault Victims’ Info Leak

• The Information Regulator has issued a summons to the South African Police Services(SAPS) after officials leaked Krugersdorp victims’ private information
• The agency wants to know exactly how the breach of personal information occurred and has accused SAPS of interfering in the investigation
• South Africans are outraged by the release of the victim's personal information, with some implying that the breach was intentional

JOHANNESBURG - Police officials have allegedly released the personal information of the Krugersdorp rape victims on WhatsApp. The Information shared includes the women’s names, ages, home addresses and details of the assault against them.

This breach of the victims' right to privacy of personal information constitutes interference on the party of the police, Information Regulator spokesperson Nomzamo Zondi said.

eNCA reported that the regulator wants details regarding how the material was disclosed. The regulator had initially asked SAPS for the information, but no comprehensive response was given.

Read also

Competition Commission busts 8 life insurers accused of fixing prices and collusion

Jacaranda FM reported that SAPS failed to promptly provide the regulator with the information it requested, which compelled the regulator to issue the summons.

Advocate Pansy Tlakula, the chair of the Information Regulator, denounced SAPS, adding that the organisation does not appreciate the police services' lack of responsiveness and subpar answers.

South Africans react to the Krugersdorp victims’ information being leaked

South Africans are outraged about the release of the victims' private information, with some speculating that corruption within the SAPS is at play.

Here are some comments:

@M3kk3r said:

"Hope everyone watched @carteblanchetv on Sunday as they highlighted how easily the SAPS are influenced by money."

Busi Ngwenya posted:

“Polygraph test is needed in the SAPS (monthly). Crooks & gamblers (gambling with people's lives). nx”

Krugersdorp victim breaks her silence - says she feels forgotten by South Africa, Mzansi disagrees

Read also

46 Alleged instigators nabbed as Hawks continue investigation into July unrest

Previously Briefly News reported that a woman who was gang raped in Krugersdorp is struggling to come to terms with the brutal incident and feels forgotten by society. The victim was among eight women who suffered for more than 10 hours and said more focus had been placed on the suspects than the women’s pain.

More than 80 men were arrested in connection with the rapes, and 14 were charged with rape, sexual assault and robbery with aggravating circumstances. During an interview with SABC News, the victim said no one has checked on their mental health.

Source: Briefly News