| 2024/03/16 |
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Media Statement POLOKWANE – The Provincial Commissioner has expressed profound condemnation regarding the incidents of rape involving minors as both victims and perpetrators within the province. These disturbing events not only reflect a dire need for societal introspection but also call for an immediate and unified response to combat such heinous acts. In recent incidents that took place separately, two minor girls aged five and six were sexually assaulted by minor boys in Mopani District. During the incident that occurred on Thursday, 14 March 2024 in Topanama village in Maake policing area, a six-year-old girl was sexual assaulted by nine-year-old twins. The boys are residing next door, and the victim’s mother found out about the matter after the little girl confided in her. She told her that she was assaulted by the two boys during play. The second incident took place on Friday, 15 March 2024, in Makhushane village in Namakgale policing area where a five-year-old girl was allegedly gang-raped by five minor boys, including her biological brother (11). The children aged between 10 and 11 are all friends of the victim’s brother. The mother became aware of the incident after the girl confided in her elder cousin, and she immediately alerted her mother, who was at work at the time. She then rushed back home. All these cases were transferred to the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses Unit for thorough investigations, with the intervention of the probation officer. The Provincial Commissioner emphasized the critical role of parents and guardians in fostering environments where children are educated on respect, consent, and the importance of protecting one another from harm. “It is imperative that we, as a society, instil values of empathy and understanding in our children. The home should be the first classroom where lessons of dignity and respect are taught,” the Commissioner stated. The Provincial Commissioner has further urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant and proactive in their responsibilities. Awareness and open conversations about personal safety, respect for oneself and others, and the understanding of boundaries are crucial components of parenting that cannot be overlooked. “We cannot turn a blind eye to these disturbing incidents. It is the duty of every citizen to act against violence and abuse. Let us unite in protecting our children and building a safer, more compassionate society for all,” added Lieutenant General Hadebe. Ends
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