Following media reports in which allegations have been made about alcohol abuse by both the 36-year-old man and his wife, Springs police spokesman Captain Johannes Ramphora says nothing can be proven at this stage and these allegations could damage the investigation.
He added that reports in various media, this morning (Tuesday), that everyone who knew about the children being abused in the house might be prosecuted are, at this stall, merely rumours and allegations.
Ramphora says the police are still taking statements from both the mother and the father’s family to establish if they knew about the alleged abuse.
If the police establish that they had knowledge of any abuse taking place, Ramphora says it will be up to the court to decide whether to prosecute those in the know.
The allegations
It is alleged that the man held his five children and his wife in a house in Springs for a number of years against their will.
He is accused of child abuse, defeating the ends of justice, attempted murder and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
The man will make his third court appearance in the Springs Regional Court tomorrow (Wednesday) where it is believed he will apply for bail.
He is currently in custody in Springs.
