A release says, quote, "It has been over a week since 2 women alleged that while in police custody at the Independence Police Station, they were raped by 3 police officers. Gang rape is a serious allegation yet the officers accused remain on active duty. (There) is a strong suggestion (by police) that it was not rape, something that the police are not in a position to say.

The women's arm of the People's United Party condemns in the strongest possible terms the irresponsible and unprofessional manner in which this allegation of gang rape by police authorities is being handled." end quote.

The release continues, quote, "The United Women's Group also condemns strongly the remarks by ACP Alejandro Cowo regarding the murder of a woman in Ladyville whereby he stated that the murder victim "is a very friendly person and that she was out with the villagers, socializing with them". For any police authority to suggest that a woman's social behaviour can contribute to violence against her is completely unacceptable and should be decried by all."