Perv Alert

If you've ever been groped or flashed in public, you'll know the anger and humiliation it induces. We're talking more than just a playful feel from a lover or a harmless sneak peek. When a stranger touches you inappropriately or exposes his genitals to you, it's a violation of your personal space and human rights.

No-one has the right to assault another person in any way, says police captain Elliot Sinyangana of the South African Police Service. No matter where it happens, you need to take action. Follow these measures and deter that pervert.

HANDS OFF!
'I've been groped so many times in crowded bars and clubs,' says 21-year-oId Cape Town student Melissa Arnold. 'For some reason, guys think they're entitled to touch you in clubs. When I go out with my girlfriends, at least one of us will be felt up while walking to the bar or the toilet.'

But it happens fast, she says. 'When you turn around, there are about five guys looking at you. It could have been anyone, so we usually don't fuss.'

'A woman knows when a touch is not accidental,' says Sanette Smit. There's a big difference between a fleeting, unintentional brush of the hand and a lingering, offensive grope. If it makes you feel uncomfortable or ill-treated in any way, it constitutes assault.

Sinyangana agrees. 'No-one has the right to touch your breast, bum or any other part of your body without your permission. That person can be charged with public indecency or sexual harassment.'

Smit suggests that you warn the guy that if he does it again you will hit him. 'Then if he does try it again, strike at him hard – aiming for his groin.'

Sinyangana says that while violence is never a solution, 'if you feel you're in danger, a reaction like this would amount to self-defence.'

'PUT THAT LITTLE THING AWAY!'
Flashing tends to catch you off guard – it happens so suddenly that you're initially frozen in shock and don't know how to react. You could be driving or walking to your car when a passer-by flashes you or you see a man masturbating at the side of the road.

Why do men flash? 'They do it for attention,' says Smit. He could be trying to intimidate or humiliate you. 'Mostly he gets excited just by seeing the expression on your face.'

If you are being harassed and there are other people around, don't just get up and walk away. Make a fuss, she says. Speak up so that everybody hears you and sees what he's up to. Or you could make a joke of it, like one old woman did when she poked her umbrella at a flasher's penis and said, 'Put that little thing away!'

By verbalising your anger, you're not only empowering yourself, you could also be helping others by preparing them to deal with possible similar situations, says Smit.

A guy who masturbates in public is not necessarily a rapist – but it's possible he could become one further down the line.

'It depends on the circumstances but, generally, if a person exposes himself or masturbates in front of you, you should report it,' says Sinyangana. 'Dial 10111 and give your exact location so that police can intervene immediately.'

FLASH PREVENTION
While there are no guarantees that you won't ever be targeted, there are some safety measures you can take to reduce your risk:
• Walk purposefully. Even if you're scared, pretend that you're feeling confident and strong.
• Keep away from dodgy areas. If you can't avoid going through a dangerous area, make sure you go with other people.
• If you are assaulted, try to make a mental note of the attacker's appearance. Any details – about his height, build, clothing or identifying marks such as a scar or tattoo – will help police catch him after you report the crime.

Author: Lesleigh Kivedo