In South Africa, a woman is raped every 12 minutes. In the latest crime statistics released by the Minister of Police, Senzo Mchunu, 10,191 rapes were reported between July and September this year. Of the rapes, 106 victims were learners who were violated where they should feel safe, at schools, universities, colleges, and daycare centres. We look at the steps to follow when you become a victim of sexual assault.

IT IS NEVER THE VICTIM'S FAULT

It's worth remembering that rape can happen to anyone, and it is never the victim's fault. The police say that every victim of rape responds differently to the violation, as you may feel dirty and want to wash repeatedly, scared and afraid to go out, and that the incident is your fault and that you are guilty. The victims are sometimes struggling to sleep, having nightmares, unable to eat, unable to stop crying or wanting to forget it as quickly as possible and get on with their lives. None of these responses are unusual or unnatural. The South African Police Services said you should follow this to make sure that proper evidence is collected and ensure that the rapist is brought to justice.

DO NOT PANIC: According to SAPS, common sense is your best defence; if the attacker is dangerous, cooperate and try to negotiate. Remember, submission is not consent.

GET INFO ON THE PERPETRATOR: Remember what the attacker looks like, including his age, race, height, hair colour, scars, tattoos, clothes, voice, and jewellery. Scream, yell, blow your whistle, or run away if you can.

KEEP THE EVIDENCE: Keep all the evidence so that the police can use it for further investigation. Put on your underwear and even pants after the incident, until help arrives or until you can get to a medical examiner. The reason for this is that there is a gravity challenge as semen drains away from the body; this at least allows it to be trapped by the underwear or pants.

REPORT THE RAPE: After the attack, you must first report to the nearest police station or call the police hotline 0800 10111.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU REPORT RAPE

According to the SAPS, the investigating officer will take your statement. You need not be alone, or you can request to be with a trusted friend or family member as long as he or she is not a potential witness in your case.

• If you later feel that your statement is wrong or incomplete, you can make another statement.
• You can make your statement in your language.
• You have the right to copy your statement. It may sometimes not be possible to get a copy immediately, but then you will get it later.
• The officer will give you a case number, and you must use this number whenever you want information about your case.
• If necessary, the investigating officer will make sure you are examined by an accredited healthcare worker, who will complete a medical report and collect medical evidence.
• You must make sure that the investigating officer knows how and where to contact you at all times.
• The investigating officer will let you know of any developments regarding the case.

REACH OUT FOR SUPPORT: You are advised to ask the police official dealing with your case to recommend someone to help you. There are victim support programmes, psychologists, counsellors, health care or social workers, employers, friends, family, or church members.