Eastern Region records 1,929 domestic violence cases

The Eastern Regional Domestic Violence and Victims’ Support Unit (DOVVSU) of the Ghana Police Service recorded more cases of domestic violence in 2013 than in 2012.

The Unit in 2013 recorded a total of 1,929 cases, which indicated an increase as compared to 1,502 cases recorded for the same period in the year 2012.

According to the Eastern Regional DOVVSU Coordinator, Mrs Eunice Annor, the highest number of cases reported at the Unit was Non-Maintenance 744, Assault 472, Threat of Death and Causing Harm 154, Defilement 145 and Offensive Conduct 68.

The others include Unlawful Child Removal 49, Stealing 42, Abduction 42, Rape 41 and Indecent Assault 10.

DSP Mrs Annor said most people had been enlightened, especially women, to freely report cases at the Unit for redress and for amicable settlement, as a result of an intensive education on domestic violence,

“This year, we intend to extend the education to special schools, orphanages and to the remotest areas in the region as we are opening more district offices,” she added.

DSP Mrs Annor lauded the media for their committed role in championing the welfare of the vulnerable in society.

She, however, appealed for continuous collaboration with the media to step up the sensitization activities this year to ensure that domestic violence was reduced to the minimum.