A 43-year-old Bekkersdal woman was arrested on Wednesday 10 March for allegedly abusing her three-year-old grandson.
According to Sergeant Linkie Lefakane, spokesperson for the Bekkersdal Police, the woman’s neighbours reported the matter to the police after the little boy was heard crying incessantly outside.
Lefakane said police discovered that the child’s body was covered in fresh wounds and old scars that showed that he had been abused constantly.
“The child’s grandmother was arrested and charged with child abuse and assault with intend to do grievous bodily harm. The boy has since been placed under foster care,” Lefakane said.
Colonel Phumelele Matamela has applauded neighbours for reporting the matter to the police, and said police will embark on an educational campaign to address the community of Bekkersdal on issues relating to child abuse and negligence.
“’We are saying enough is enough! Children have the right to be cared for, and we’re going to make sure that those who torment innocent lives are dealt with harshly by the law,” Matamela said.
