Rise In Child Rape Cases Triggers Outrage, Calls For Government Action

Mpumalanga and the Free State have seen a disturbing rise in child rape cases, particularly involving toddlers “young children of 1 and 3 years”, raising concerns over authorities’ lack of action against those committing the crime “perpetrators”.

Responding, United Democratic Movement Women’s Organisation (Udemwo) secretary-general Thandi Nontenja, expressed shock at the growing number of rape incidents nationwide. She urged the government to take serious steps to address the crisis, citing multiple cases between November last year and early February.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Congolese Man Arrested For Zanzou Nightclub Torture Case

These incidents occurred before and after December, the month dedicated to the 16 Days of No Violence against Women and Children campaign.

Nontenja, in highlighting several alarming cases in Mpumalanga and the Free State, said perpetrators allegedly raped a three-year-old and a two-year-old in Siyabuswa and Elukwatini.

While in the Free State, they reportedly raped a 12-year-old girl and a nine-year-old boy in Welkom. Also a three-year-old girl in Virginia, who was allegedly raped, assaulted, and burned with a cigarette.

“These incidents remind us that child abuse affects both girls and boys,” “We urge the government to fast-track these cases and ensure swift justice. Delayed justice is denied justice—we cannot allow these perpetrators to walk free while their victims suffer.” Nontenja said.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Police Fatally Shoot Six Armed Suspects In N2 Highway Chase

Udemwo is demanding urgent state intervention, including more funding for support services for child abuse survivors, stronger enforcement of justice in child abuse cases, and a national awareness campaign to prevent child abuse and promote child safety.

“We call on South Africans to stand with us in condemning these heinous crimes and demanding government action,” Nontenja added.

Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, provincial police spokesperson, assured the public that Mpumalanga police remain committed to thoroughly investigating all reports of sexual assault and rape, especially those involving children.

---

For SA Crime News Follow SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagram