René Burger (20 years old) was one of at least 145 South African women who was raped on May 5, if last year's crime statistics are to be believed. The number is likely to be much higher, since it is estimated that only one in nine rapes is reported to the police. The sister of Springbok rugby star Schalk Burger is making headlines around the world. The Burger family's ordeal has once again highlighted the scourge of crime in South Africa. It is one of several prominent families who have been affected by the on-going crime wave.
Denise Goldin, mother of murdered actor Brett Goldin', has commended René on her bravery. "Complacency is the worst thing and has become this country's mantra. Crime in this country is unacceptable. We are being held hostage by a small number of criminals. We must do what we can to fight crime. It affects us all, no one has gone untouched whether it's a family member or a friend, or the fact that we all have to look over our shoulders all the time." She said she supported the up-coming Million Man March Against Crime campaign.
So far 610 000 South Africans have signed up for the event that is to take place on June 10 in Pretoria. Actor-comedian Desmond Dube asks the nation to join him in tackling crime through the Million Man March Against Crime. Initiated by Desmond, The Million Man March Against Crime is an effort to find a solution to South Africa’s biggest social malady. All South Africans, men and women, across all races and from all walks of life are urged to participate in the campaign that will demonstrate the power of unity. The campaign aims to raise the profile of crime as a matter of national priority. The march will culminate with the handover of a petition to top government officials at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
