Dorset Police Targeting Honour-Based Violence

28 November 2014, 10:00

Dorset Police say there were 22 reports of honour-based violence and forced marriage in Bournemouth and Poole alone last year.

The crimes are being highlighted as part of a campaign to raise awareness of the subject during Domestic Abuse week. It's thought many more are never reported.

In October this year Faleh Ghasi Albasman was sentenced to an indefinite hospital order after he admitted stabbing his daughter to death for being "disrespectful".

Dorset Police, working with local authorities across Dorset, has produced a leaflet entitled "Honour Based Violence, Female Genital Mutilation and Forced Marriage", which is aimed at those who feel they or family or friends may be at risk. It emphasises that allegations will be taken seriously and the help available from the police and other organisations.

Detective Chief Inspector of Serious Crime Investigations, Jez Noyce said:

"Honour based violence, forced marriage and female genital mutilation will not be tolerated in Dorset.

 "These crimes can be stopped if you seek support. Dorset Police has specially trained officers to investigate these crimes. You will be believed, supported and have your report dealt with in the strictest confidence."  People are urged to contact Dorset Police on 101 or 999 in an emergency.

As part of the week, male Bournemouth councillors and the chief executive, Tony Williams, have been photographed wearing white ribbons which is an international symbol showing men's support for the ending of violence against woman.

Bournemouth Borough Council's portfolio holder, Councillor David Smith said:

"This is a crime which is hidden but from which Bournemouth and Dorset as a whole is not immune. We want to urge all those who are victims of Domestic Abuse including honour crime, forced marriage or FGM, to contact the police and seek the help that is out there. We want to send out the message we will not tolerate such behaviour in our community."