Fampro warns about scams related to boy whose genitals were cut off

The Family Protection Association (Fampro) has issued a warning about scammers who seek to extort money from people and claim it is to help the boy (6) recently found in a veld with his genitals removed.

Natasha Dixon, the managing director of Fampro, said they also warn against sharing photos of any personal information about the child.

The boy was found in a veld near the Blue Skye informal settlement on February 28 and rushed to the hospital for further care.

According to Fampro, criminal charges were laid. In coordination with Fampro and Kuselo Child Protection Services, the child’s medical expenses have been fully paid and his family is also receiving the necessary aid.

However, Fampro has been made aware of WhatsApp groups and social media users, especially on Facebook, who have illegally shared photographs of the boy without parental consent.

“Individuals have shared details which could reveal his location and identity, placing the child’s safety at risk. Some have falsely claimed to be raising funds for the child and his parents, also without parental consent,” Dixon said.

“This is unacceptable on both an ethical and a legal level. We emphasise in the strongest terms that disclosing and sharing information which may reveal a child’s identity in this manner is illegal.

“We ask that people refrain from sharing any posts about this child online, and to report those people and pages who do. We ask that group administrators remove and block any said posts and respect the rights and privacy of this child.”

She added that the public should be aware of the various regulations which prohibit the publication of such information:

• Section 74 of the South African Children’s Act of 2005 and Section 154(3) of the Criminal Procedure Act specifically state that no one may reveal the name or identity of any child involved in any legal proceedings.
• Section 34 of the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act states that a responsible party may not process personal information concerning a child.

“Another major concern is that certain groups and individuals are requesting donations for the child online without parental consent.

“The child’s personal and medical care needs have been met and we are not asking for any donations at this time, either on social media or through the news media,” said Dixon.

“We are working closely with the Department of Social Development and the SAPS to ensure the boy’s care and further legal proceedings are handled correctly.”

Fampro relies on aid from the community to continue assisting countless children every year.To support them, email admin@fampro.org.za

Also Read: Boksburg North SAPS members educate learners

Also Read; Boy (6) discovered with genitals cut off