Wales,UK - One knife-point rape takes place every 7 weeks in Wales, according to Home Office data

Knife-point rapes happen every 7 weeks in Wales, according to figures.

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SOUTH Wales has said it does everything possible to support victims as new figures show sex attackers have carried out 30 knife-point rapes in Wales over the past four years — one every seven weeks.

Home Office data shows half were in the South Wales Police force area, while there were five in Gwent, seven in North Wales and three in Dyfed-Powys.

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There were a further three sex assaults last year where perpetrators used sharp objects to subdue their victims.

Campaign group Mothers Against Murder and Aggression said the figures were horrific.

Amanda Everitt of the group added: "There seems to be a lot more being done to encourage people to report these crimes now, and the police seem to be a lot more better at dealing with them, but more needs to be done to educate people about sexual violence, what it is and what damage it causes to victims of such crimes.

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"Our court and justice systems need to reflect that harm in sentencing. There should be a clear message that we do not tolerate sexually-violent crimes."

Sarah Green, co-director of the End Violence Against Women coalition said: "These figures illustrate how extremely violent sexual offences are common and need the best police and court response that can be provided.

"It's also critical for the Welsh Government and local authorities to fund counselling and support services for rape survivors.

"These are under enormous pressure."

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Detective chief inspector David Hough of South Wales Police said: "When we investigate offences involving the use of a knife we put all the necessary resources in place to support the victim and to identify those responsible."

"We are working extremely hard, along with our partners, to raise awareness and encourage victims to have confidence in our ability to support them and investigate rapes and sexual assaults.

"We will continue to ensure victims get the best possible response and urge anyone who has experienced sexual violence to come forward.

"We will listen to you and help you."