Captain Cynthia Ndwandwe, a qualified forensic social worker with over 20 years of experience, has become a beacon of hope for child victims of gender-based violence (GBV), securing justice through her dedication and expertise in handling cases of child sexual abuse.
Ndwandwe has over two decades of experience across various government departments, and serves in the Katlehong Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Gauteng.
She specialises in cases involving crimes against children.
One of her most notable achievements was securing a 12-life imprisonment sentence for an offender who molested young boys aged eight to ten. This case, finalised at the Palm Ridge High Court on 04 December 2023, stands as a testament to her commitment and skill.
As part of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children and efforts to fight the scourge, Ndwandwe advocates for enhanced training for law enforcement officers, emphasising the importance of safeguarding evidence, improving detective services, and supporting vulnerable child victims in their pursuit of justice.
Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a pressing challenge in South Africa, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) has expressed immense pride in officers like Captain Ndwandwe, who exemplify dedication and commitment to addressing this critical issue.
“Gender-based violence remains a grave challenge in our country, but the SAPS takes immense pride in officers like Captain Cynthia Ndwandwe, whose dedication ensures justice for the most vulnerable members of our society,” the SAPS said.
According to the report titled “Child Series Volume III, Reported Crime Against Children 2022/23” released by Statistics South Africa, a significant number of reported crimes against children in South Africa involve sexual offenses, with girls being victimised more frequently than boys.
In most provinces, except for the Western Cape and Northern Cape, rape has consistently been the most prevalent reported crime against children.
The second quarter crime statistics of 2024 revealed the terrible violence perpetrated against women and children in the country. While violent crime has decreased overall between July and September this year, crimes against women and children continue to increase, often in their homes.
These three months have seen 315 children murdered, the attempted murder of 490 children, and 1 944 were assaulted with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).
This year’s 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign focuses on addressing the root causes of GBV, promoting positive masculinity and gender equity, and creating economic opportunities for women and children.
It highlights the critical need for an all-of-society approach and multisector accountability in combatting GBV and femicide.
Ndwandwe applies rigorous and scientific investigative methods in handling GBV cases, including:
• Michigan Protocol: Truth and lie techniques, rapport-building, free narration, and clarification of facts.
• Forensic Social Work Expertise: Employing specialised knowledge, skills, and methods to assess and document cases.
• Comprehensive Evidence Compilation: Ensuring solid, court-admissible evidence for arrest and conviction.
“Despite the emotional toll that such investigations can take, Ndwandwe remains unwavering in her commitment to prioritise prevention, response, care, and support for victims. She describes her role as ensuring that every piece of evidence contributes to arresting and convicting offenders who target children and the vulnerable,” the SAPS said.
She hopes her dedication and thorough work will serve as a deterrent to potential offenders, sending a clear message that crimes against children and the vulnerable will not go unpunished.
She advocates for additional training to improve detective services, particularly in GBV cases, including:
• safeguarding and handling evidence,
• obtaining buccal samples,
• statement-taking refresher courses,
• vulnerable children training, and
• court preparation for child victims.
“Captain Cynthia Ndwandwe exemplifies the courage, resilience, and professionalism that SAPS officers bring to the fight against GBV.
“Let her story inspire us all to create a safe and secure environment for all children across the country,” the SAPS said.
The 16 Days campaign, which began on 25 November, will end on 10 December. – SAnews.gov.za
