The Lagos State Government on Sunday urged residents to make use of the toll-free emergency line, 112, to report cases of rape, defilement and other sexual assaults.

Coordinator, Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT) Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adenyi, spoke at a programme to conclude the training of 190 officials of the State Emergency Command And Control Centre.

She said that cases of domestic violence, child abuse, neglect and maltreatment could also be reported through the line.

Vivour-Adeniyi said that the officials were trained on how to receive reports of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, which was in line with the quest of the state to ensure that victims had a voice.

According to her, concerned members of the public who also wish to report acts of violence will be able to do so with utmost confidentiality.

“We are assuring victims and the public that information provided will be passed across, while the concerned agencies will be notified immediately.

“Aside the dissemination of the information to the appropriate agencies for appropriate action, callers will be informed of relevant steps to be taken, depending on the nature of the call.

“They would also be given details such as addresses and telephone numbers of the relevant agencies that will handle their issues.

“For cases of rape or defilement, they can report such to the Mirabel Centre or the Office of the Public Defender (OPD).”

Vivour-Adeniyi said that necessary steps had been put in place to help victims of domestic violence get adequate help and counseling, as well as free legal services from the OPD.

“The essence of this initiative is to encourage victims and members of the public to make use of the 112 toll-free emergency line, in order to ensure access to justice, irrespective of class and means.” (NAN)

•Photo shows Gov. Ambode