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9 May 2011

We have learnt with shock and disgust of the rape of a young girl from Attridgeville, West of Pretoria, which occurred on Thursday, 5 May 2011. The thirteen year old girl, who is open about her sexual orientation, was sexually violated in what seems to be an act of "corrective rape".

Government condemns this senseless and cowardly act of criminality. We would like to reiterate that everyone in South Africa has the right to express themselves in the sexual orientation of their choice. Gay and lesbian rights are human and constitutional rights which must be protected and respected at all times.

The department has been in contact with the Department of Social Development in order to assist the young girl and her family during this trying time. In addition, we are interacting with the South African Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority’s Sexual Offences and Community Affairs unit in an effort to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and are prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

We extend our sympathies to the family of the victim and undertake to provide the necessary support in this matter.

Enquiries:
Tlali Tlali
Tel: 012 357 8217 or 021 467 1700
Cell: 082 3333 880

Issued by: Department of Justice and Constitutional Development
9 May 2011

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