The National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa (NPA) can confirm receipt of a dossier from AIDS-Free World requesting that an investigation be initiated into the alleged widespread sexual offences perpetrated in the lead-up to the 2008 Zimbabwean presidential election.

The NPA has referred the matter to the South African Police Service's (SAPS) Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations, the Hawks. The Hawks are busy with the assessment process that will determine whether or not an official investigation should be conducted.

The NPA's Priority Crimes Litigation Unit (PCLU) is meaningfully involved in advising the SAPS, and awaits a formal decision from the Hawks. However, where it is alleged that crimes were committed on South African soil the SAPS will have an obligation to investigate such allegations.

The PCLU has in the meantime convened an internal multi-disciplinary task team which includes the Sexual Offences and Community Affairs Unit and the Office for Witness Protection to consider all aspects of the allegations.

Issued by: National Prosecuting Authority