Shauna Rhoda, a 32-year-old mother from Strandfontein, has taken a bold stand against gender-based violence (GBV) after enduring years of alleged abuse at the hands of her ex-partner, Troy Hadden, a City of Cape Town law enforcement officer, reports Cape {town} Etc.
In a powerful Facebook post on 15 July, Rhoda revealed the physical, emotional, and sexual abuse she suffered, culminating in a brutal assault two weeks ago when she went to collect her children’s clothes.
‘I was severely beaten. It was one of the most traumatic and horrific experiences of my life,’ she wrote. ‘The person who once claimed to love me used his power, physically and emotionally, to destroy me.’
In an emotional video posted alongside her statement on Facebook, Rhoda shares further harrowing details of the abuse, describing how her ex-partner allegedly beat her in front of his new girlfriend, choked her, and left her with fractures and bleeding injuries.
She also speaks about the systemic failures that allowed her abuser to evade consequences:
Despite reporting the incident, her case was dismissed due to ‘lack of evidence,’ leaving her frustrated but determined. ‘I will not be silenced. I will not stop until justice is served, not just for me, but for every woman who’s ever been told her pain wasn’t real enough to matter,’ she declared.
Rhoda’s story went viral, sparking outrage among social media users. Many echoed her frustration after the Mitchells Plain Magistrate’s Court dropped the charges.
‘The evidence was on my face. I don’t know how there was not enough evidence,’ she told IOL.
The City of Cape Town confirmed it was investigating the officer involved, but Rhoda says accountability is long overdue.
Supporters flooded Rhoda’s post with messages of solidarity.
‘Omg Shauna Rhoda… Glad u out of that situation, shoo,’ wrote Tina Adams.
‘GBV Awareness,’ commented Ashton Jansen, highlighting the broader issue.
‘This is so bold, I’m so sorry about this. I’m so proud of you,’ added Samantha Lee Classen.
Another user urged: ‘Ladies, let’s stand together & make this go viral. No woman deserves this.’
A call to action ahead of Women’s Day
With Women’s Day (9 August) approaching, Rhoda’s case underscores South Africa’s ongoing struggle with GBV. Activists argue that systemic failures continue to silence survivors.
‘You’re bravery is strength,’ one supporter wrote. ‘It’s about time we women speak up!‘
Rhoda’s fight for justice is far from over, but her voice is amplifying a movement demanding change.
‘To everyone reading this: Share my story. Support survivors. Demand accountability,’ she urged.
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Picture: Shauna Rhoda/ Facebook
