The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched new efforts to curb the growing cases of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) nationwide. DCI Director Mohamed Amin reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to tackle these crimes swiftly and professionally. The rising reports have shocked many and sparked public outrage.
At the closing of a special training session at the DCI Academy, Amin announced new forensic strategies to support survivors promptly and respectfully. The training held with international partners and local civil society groups, focused on improving how officers handle sexual offence cases, from gathering evidence to presenting it in court.
Amin reported that over 7,000 SGBV cases have surfaced in recent months, including femicide, rape, child abuse, and domestic violence. He said DCI officers must treat every report seriously and act fast with a victim-centered approach. He warned that any officer who neglects a survivor’s needs will face personal consequences.
“This is not just a statistic, it’s a human being behind every case,” said Amin. “We must change how we work. No survivor should leave a police station without being heard or helped.”
To improve investigations, DCI has upgraded forensic evidence systems and trauma-informed interviewing. Officers who completed the training will now lead efforts in their assigned regions to ensure consistent, effective case handling. Amin also announced more gender desks and safe spaces in police stations to support survivors better.
He admitted that many survivors have missed justice due to poor investigations and weak coordination between police and prosecutors. To fix this, DCI is drafting a new protocol to boost collaboration with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Judiciary, aiming to take stronger cases to court and secure convictions.
Human rights groups and women’s organizations welcomed the move. Activists at the event urged the government to invest more in shelters, medical care, and counseling services for survivors.
Amin also highlighted new threats, such as online abuse, cyberstalking, and digital exploitation. He promised that no form of gender-based violence would go unpunished.
“We’re sending a clear message to perpetrators: your days of walking free are over. We’re coming for you.”
