30 KNIFEPOINT RAPES IN WALES IN FOUR YEARS

SEX attackers have carried out 30 knifepoint rapes in Wales over the past four years – one every seven weeks. Home Office data shows half were in the South Wales Police force area, while there were five in Gwent, seven in North Wales and three in Dyfed-Powys.

There were a further three sex assaults last year where perpetrators used sharp objects to subdue their victims.

Campaigners Mothers Against Murder and Aggression were horrified by the figures.

“Sexually violent crimes are never acceptable,” chairman Amanda Everitt said.

“There seems to be a lot more being done to encourage people to report these crimes now, and the police seem to be a lot better at dealing with them, but more needs to be done to educate people about sexual violence, what it is and what damage it causes to victims of such crimes. Offenders and potential offenders need to be aware of the life-long damage these offences can cause to victims.

“Our court and justice systems need to reflect that harm in sentencing. There should be a clear message that we do not tolerate sexually violent crimes.”

Sarah Green, co-director of the End Violence Against Women coalition, said: “These figures illustrate how extremely violent sexual offences are common and need the best police and court response.

“Rape has not been prosecuted very well.

“It’s also critical for the Welsh Government and local authorities to fund counselling and support services for rape survivors. These are under enormous pressure.

“Rape is talked about in terms of policing. But the long-term effects are important.”

South Wales Police insisted it took “these types of incidents very seriously”.

“When we investigate offences involving the use of a knife we put all the necessary resources in place to support the victim and to identify those responsible,” Detective Chief Inspector David Hough said.

Gwent Police Detective Chief Inspector Mark Pope said: “This type of incident is something we take seriously.

“It is reassuring for residents of Gwent that this report shows that incidents involving knives and sharp instruments in Gwent [are] well below the national average.”

Dyfed-Powys Police Chief Superintendent Andy John said: “These types of incidents are very serious, but thankfully isolated in the Dyfed-Powys Police area.

“We have seen an increase in confidence to report sexual offences, but those involving the use of a knife remain very low.”