AN elderly Motherwell-based couple will now have a safe and secure place of shelter, thanks to renovations to their home by Port Elizabeth’s South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations (FCS) Unit.
This, through a project called Sinawe, meaning “we are with you”.
The project is aimed at improving the living conditions of the elderly and was established following the brutal assault of 77-year-old Thembeka Sikalika in January this year.
According to police spokesperson Captain André Beetge, it was during the investigation of the police when it was discovered that Sikalika was living under very poor conditions at her house.
“The investigating officer, detective constable Vatiswa Nontshokweni of the Motherwell Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, together with the SAPS sector managers of Motherwell police station, then started on a project to uplift this victim’s living conditions,” Beetge explained.
He said various sponsors were approached, and in the past week the couple’s home was painted, refurbished with household furniture and equipment, including a new bed and bedding, as well as clothing and food.
“The victim spent the past week in a place of safety while renovations were done by the police members of the Motherwell police station, Community Police Forum (CPF), as well as FCS’s unit members,” Beetge said.
The house was handed back to Sikalika during a hand over ceremony at the house last week.
Speaking at the event, Motherwell SAPS Cluster Commander, Major General Dawie Rabie, said the project is part of the SAPS’s focus on the celebration of 16 Days of Activism of No Violence Against Women and Children, and the protection of elderly community members.
“In terms of the Older Persons Act 13 of 2006, we need to promote and maintain the rights, status, well-being and safety and security of older persons,” Rabie said.
Sikalika’s joy of moving into a brand-new house was shared by her partner, Bill Vukenini (70), and her close family and friends.
