Family and Sexual Violence (FSV) police officers play a critical role far beyond arrests, guiding and protecting victims from the moment a complaint is lodged until a final court order is issued.
Acting Director of the Family Sexual Violence Directorate, Chief Sergeant Eremugo Job, says FSV officers take full responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of every survivor they handle.
“The responsibilities of FSV officers go above and beyond expectations. We guide, protect and assist the victim from the very beginning of the case right through to the court order, and even beyond,” Chief Sergeant Job said.
He explained that each FSV officer is assigned to take full charge of a victim’s case, ensuring safety, security and continuity of care throughout the justice process.
“Victim safety is our number one priority. Each officer is responsible for their victim until the matter is finalized in court,” he said.
According to Chief Sergeant Job, once a report is made, FSV officers act immediately by arresting the perpetrator, arranging medical treatment at a Family Support Centre if required and securing safe accommodation through approved safe houses.
“We make sure the matter is dealt with there and then. If the victim needs medical attention, we take her to hospital. If she needs protection, we arrange a safe house, so she is safe and free from interference as a witness,” he said.
While victims are in safe houses, officers conduct investigations and prepare Interim Protection Orders (IPOs).
FSV officers also accompany and guide victims through court proceedings.
“If the victim is nervous, traumatized or unable to speak for herself, the FSV officer stands beside her at the witness box to guide and represent her,” Chief Sergeant Job said.
The FSVD handles both criminal and civil matters under the law.
Criminal cases include physical assault, grievous bodily harm, murder, sexual offences such as marital rape, incest and child sexual abuse, threatening behavior, emotional and psychological abuse, financial abuse, spiritual abuse and stalking.
Civil matters include child and mother maintenance, divorce, adultery, enticement and child adoption.
Chief Sergeant Job said family and sexual violence is widespread across the country.
“It happens every hour when you look at the entire population. Many people are not equipped with knowledge of human rights, gender-based violence and the law,” he said.
He added that while physical violence is often visible, emotional and verbal abuse is the most common and frequently ignored.
“Swearing and degrading words cause serious emotional and psychological damage, but many people take it lightly and do not report it,” he said.
