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The alarming rise in child rape cases, particularly involving toddlers in Mpumalanga and the Free State, has raised serious concerns about the lack of swift action by authorities against perpetrators.
Thandi Nontenja, secretary-general of the United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (Udemwo), expressed shock at the increasing incidents of sexual violence against children and urged the government to take decisive steps to address the crisis.
Disturbing Incidents Across Provinces
Nontenja cited several disturbing incidents that occurred between November last year and early February. These include the alleged rape of a three-year-old and two-year-old in Siyabuswa and Elukwatini, Mpumalanga.
In the Free State, a 12-year-old girl and a nine-year-old boy were allegedly raped in Welkom. Additionally, a three-year-old girl was reportedly raped, assaulted, and burned with a cigarette in Virginia.
“These horrific cases serve as a stark reminder that child abuse affects both girls and boys. We demand urgent action to ensure justice is swiftly served,” said Nontenja.
Call for Immediate Government Action
Udemwo has outlined several measures for the government to implement in addressing child rape and abuse. These include:
Increased funding for support services for survivors of child abuse.
Improved efficiency of the justice system in handling such cases.
A national awareness campaign to prevent child abuse and promote child safety.
“Justice delayed is justice denied. We cannot allow these perpetrators to roam free while young victims suffer,” Nontenja emphasized.
Justice System Criticized for Delayed Action
One of the cases that sparked outrage is the alleged rape of a three-year-old girl in Siyabuswa. Although the incident occurred in December, it was only reported to the police on February 2. The case was assigned to the KwaMhlanga Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit, and the child was taken for medical examination.
However, despite the suspect being apprehended by community members and handed over to the police, the case was not enrolled by the senior prosecutor. This led to the suspect’s release, sparking public anger and renewed calls for accountability.
Provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli reassured the public that law enforcement remains committed to investigating all cases of sexual assault and rape, particularly those involving children.
Community Outrage and Arrests
In Elukwatini, a 26-year-old man was arrested for allegedly raping a two-year-old girl. According to police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Jabu Ndubane, the suspect lured the toddler into an abandoned house while she was on her way to a tuck shop. A passerby noticed the child showing signs of distress, prompting the community to take action. The suspect was injured during a confrontation before being arrested and charged with rape.
National Call for Justice
Nontenja urged South Africans to stand together in condemning these heinous crimes and pressuring the government to take immediate action.
“We cannot remain silent while our children suffer. The government must prioritize justice and protection for the most vulnerable members of our society,” she said.
As the cases continue to rise, the demand for stronger law enforcement and faster judicial processes grows louder. Communities, civil society groups, and activists are calling for reforms to ensure that no child suffers in silence and that perpetrators face the full might of the law.
