Sergeant Pule Morake, a dedicated member of the Wolmaransstad Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS), is being celebrated by the South African Police Service (Saps) during this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. With a remarkable track record of securing justice for victims, Morake has been instrumental in bringing perpetrators of sexual violence to account.
Having joined the unit in 2010, Morake has achieved outstanding results, including securing 12 life sentences and over 500 years of combined prison terms for perpetrators of sexual violence. His commitment to fighting for justice for women, children, and vulnerable groups is evident in his tireless efforts to ensure that victims receive the closure they deserve.
Morake’s Recent Success: Ensuring Justice for Victims
One of Morake’s recent successes involved Johannes Ontsheketse Tshabile, a perpetrator who terrorised young girls and women in Wolmaransstad. Tshabile would wear a balaclava, drag his victims into fields, assault them at knifepoint, and rob them. Through meticulous investigation and the use of DNA evidence, Morake built a strong case against Tshabile, leading to his conviction on 65 charges, including rape, sexual assault, and robbery with aggravating circumstances.
On 21 February, Tshabile was sentenced to 11 life terms and an additional 363 years in prison, thanks to Morake’s dedication and perseverance in seeking justice for the victims. Morake’s commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of sexual crimes face the consequences of their actions highlights his unwavering determination to create a safer society for all.
Speaking about his work, Morake encourages victims of gender-based violence to come forward and report crimes to their nearest police station. He emphasizes the importance of speaking up and working together to create a safer society where justice prevails. Morake’s mission is to ensure that victims of sexual crimes find closure and justice in the court of law, providing them with the support and assistance they need during such challenging times.
As we commemorate the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, it is essential to recognize the dedication and hard work of individuals like Sergeant Pule Morake, who are at the forefront of the fight against gender-based violence. Their efforts serve as a beacon of hope for victims and a reminder that together, we can create a society where everyone feels safe and protected.
