Tougher sentences needed for crimes against women and children

The issue has again been brought sharply into focus by the recent murders of women and children.

NOW READ: Violence against women a stain on the country's conscience: Ramaphosa

Among the victims are student Uyinene Mrwetyana, whom police say was raped and killed inside a post office in Cape Town, and Eastern Cape boxer, Leighandre Jegels who was shot and killed -- allegedly by her partner.

The department's Shalen Gajadhar says the perpetrators must be removed from society.

"Further to that, our call is to the men of this country to look at the perpetrators around you, you see them as your friends, brothers and family members, but there are perpetrators around all of us," he said.

ALSO READ: Blood found in post office where Uyinene's alleged killer worked

"They need to be reported, ousted and called out on their actions, no matter how small the abuse so that we stop losing women on a daily basis, as is currently the case."

A few social media campaigns highlighting the scourge and calling for action are gaining ground.

ALSO READ: Safety key focus ahead of Reed Dance