Anti Rape Device: South African Inventor Unveils Controversial ‘Rape-aXe’ to Combat Sexual Assault

Anti Rape Device: In a bold and provocative move, South African inventor Sonette Ehlers has unveiled a new anti-rape device, the “Rape-aXe,” designed to combat one of the highest rates of sexual assault in the world. This innovative female condom, which functions similarly to a tampon, features sharp barbs intended to hook onto an attacker’s penis during penetration, providing a new level of defense for women in high-risk environments.

“Nothing has ever been done to help a woman so that she does not get raped, and I thought it was high time,” Ehlers, 57, stated, highlighting her motivation to address the pressing issue of sexual violence. The Rape-aXe is set to become a focal point in discussions about the effectiveness and ethics of new approaches to preventing sexual assault.

How the Rape-aXe Works: A Detailed Explanation

The Rape-aXe is made of latex and features rows of sharp barbs that secure the device to the attacker’s penis. Once the barbs engage, removal of the device can only be achieved through surgical intervention. This not only provides the victim with crucial time to escape but also ensures that medical personnel are alerted, potentially leading to the arrest of the perpetrator.

The device also serves a dual purpose: it helps protect against unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS, by functioning similarly to a female condom. Given South Africa’s alarming rate of HIV/AIDS—affecting one in nine people—this additional layer of protection could be significant.

“He will obviously be too pre-occupied at this stage. I promise you he is going to be too sore. He will go straight to hospital,” Ehlers explained, emphasizing the device’s deterrent effect.

Production and Testing: Current Status and Future Plans

The Rape-aXe has undergone preliminary testing, including trials on plastic male models and comfort assessments by women. While production is slated to begin next year, the device has yet to be tested on live subjects. Ehlers has demonstrated a prototype to the media and plans to oversee its distribution and application once it is commercially available.

Controversy and Criticism: Ethical and Practical Concerns

The Rape-aXe has ignited a firestorm of controversy among anti-rape activists and critics. Concerns have been raised that the device could potentially escalate violence against women by enraging attackers, who might retaliate more violently.

“If a victim is wearing such a device, it may enrage the attacker further and possibly result in more harm being caused,” said Sam Waterhouse, advocacy coordinator for Rape Crisis.

Critics also describe the device as medieval and barbaric, arguing that it could inflict additional trauma on victims rather than providing effective protection. Ehlers, however, defends the Rape-aXe as a necessary innovation in the fight against rape, asserting that the real issue is the crime of sexual assault itself, not the device designed to combat it.

“This is not about vengeance… but the deed, that is what I hate,” Ehlers stated, emphasizing her focus on addressing the underlying problem of sexual violence.

Potential Impact: Assessing the Rape-aXe’s Role in Preventing Sexual Assault

The introduction of the Rape-aXe raises significant questions about its potential impact on the broader efforts to prevent sexual violence. In a country where sexual assault is alarmingly prevalent, this device may offer a novel solution for some, but its effectiveness and ethical implications need thorough evaluation.

Ehlers’ invention represents a daring step towards providing women with more control and protection in vulnerable situations. As the device undergoes further testing and production, its success will depend on how well it balances innovation with the practical and ethical concerns of its application.

Conclusion: A Controversial Innovation in the Fight Against Rape

The Rape-aXe is a controversial yet innovative addition to the arsenal of tools designed to combat sexual violence. While it offers a new approach to deterring and addressing sexual assault, it also provokes important discussions about its potential risks and ethical considerations. As the device moves closer to production, it will be crucial to continue evaluating its impact and effectiveness in the ongoing battle against sexual violence.