Several parents face a degree of unease, as they send their children to school during the current pandemic. However, should parents be more worried about those preying on children to satisfy their sordid desires?
This follows the rape of 12-year-old girl in Bulwer, KwaZulu-Natal, on Monday, July 6. According to the SAPS, the Grade 7 learner was sent home from school after she forgot her face mask. As she does not live far from her school, the youngster rushed home to retrieve it.
It was during this time that she was accosted and raped. After the horrific incident, she returned to school and reported the matter. The school’s principal took her to the clinic and the rape was reported to the police.
According to the SAPS, the Donnybrook police arrested a 17-year-old suspect on Tuesday morning, July 7.
A rape case was opened at Donnybrook SAPS and it will be transferred to Port Shepstone’s Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations unit.
Read more: Man to appear in Vryheid Magistrate’s Court, following murder and rape of pregnant woman
Minister of Basic Education, Angie Motshekga, has voiced her dismay in the incident, stating that rape is a crime whose perpetrators deserve the stiffest of punishments.
“This rape of a learner once again shines the light on the scourge of Gender-Based Violence ripping our communities apart. We reiterate our profound sadness and anguish over this painful and shameful event. Gender-Based Violence is a profound human rights violation with major social and developmental impacts for survivors of violence, as well as their families, communities and society more broadly,” she emphasised.
She further commends the swift action by the Donnybrook SAPS in apprehending the 17-year-old suspect. As well as the seriousness with which they are handling the case.
“The Department will continue to ensure that the leaner, who is a minor, receives the necessary psycho-social support from the District Auxiliary Support Services and her identity is protected as she comes to terms with this painful and regrettable ordeal,” she said.
With another girl falling victim to GBV, do you feel enough is being done to protect our country’s women and girls? What steps do you feel officials should take in addressing the GBV? Share your thoughts and views with us in the comment section below.
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