South African Correspondent
A tragic incident occurred in Lastehoop, Ga-Malatji, South Africa, where a 26-year-old mother and her 43-year-old brother were arrested for allegedly murdering a one-day-old infant.
The baby was born at home and shortly after, was fatally stabbed in the upper body with a sharp instrument.
According to Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, a police spokesperson, preliminary investigations linked the mother and brother to the crime, which took place on November 6.
Unfortunately, South Africa has a high rate of violence against infants and children, with some of the highest incidences of child and infant rape in the world.
In fact, a study by the Tears Foundation and the Medical Research Council found that 50% of South Africa’s children will be abused before the age of 18 ¹.
The suspects are currently in custody and will appear in the Mankweng Magistrates Court as investigations continue.
This heartbreaking incident highlights the need for continued efforts to address violence against children and infants in South Africa.
Incidents of Violence Against Children in South Africa:
- High Rate of Child Abuse: 50% of children are abused before the age of 18 ¹
- Infant Rape: South Africa has one of the highest rates of infant rape in the world ¹
- Child Murder: Cases of child murder, like the one in Lastehoop, are a tragic reminder of the need for protection and support for vulnerable children.
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