22-Month-Old Raped In Limpopo, Toddler Cannot Stand After Assault

A 22-month-old baby girl has been raped in Maphophe Village within the Saselamani policing area of Limpopo’s Vhembe District.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, 6 May, when the child’s mother noticed her daughter could not stand properly. Upon discovering a swollen left knee, the mother rushed the toddler to a local hospital, where medical staff confirmed the child had been sexually assaulted.

Unknown Suspect Hunted by Limpopo FCS Unit

Following the devastating medical findings, the Saselamani Police Station opened a rape case. Detectives have since transferred the docket to the Giyani Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for specialised investigation.

While authorities continue pursuing leads, the perpetrator remains unknown at this stage.

Commissioner’s Child Protection Month Plea

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Limpopo, expressed deep revulsion at the crime, which occurred shortly after the official start of Child Protection Month.

“This is a shocking and heartbreaking crime. A baby of 22 months cannot speak for herself, and it is our duty to speak for her through action,” Hadebe said.

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The commissioner highlighted the failure of community safety efforts, adding: “Child Protection Month was launched to remind us all that children must be kept safe, and yet here we are.”

She issued a stern warning to the unknown attacker and a public plea for assistance.
“I want to send a clear message: we will find the person responsible, and we will ensure that justice is served. I am calling on anyone in that community who knows something to please come forward. “Do it for that little girl.”