Ten shocking facts about infanticide in SA
SA has highest rate of child murder.
The recent death of a six-month-old baby boy once again put the spotlight on infanticide (the murder of a baby). The baby’s father, Mathinus Pelser was arrested on Wednesday (15 June).
Here are 10 facts on infanticide as per the World Health Organisation (WHO):
• South Africa has the highest rate of infanticides in the world.
• Children in their first year of life are most likely to fall victim to homicide.
• The homicide rate for boys are nearly double that of girls.
• Most homicides occur in public spaces (abandonment) or in the victims’ own homes.
• Sharp inflicted wounds and blunt-force trauma are the most prevalent causes in these homicides.
• According to one study 454 babies were murdered in 365 days.
• 19 deaths in 100 000 takes place within the first 28 days of the baby’s life.
• Research has shown that in two thirds of infanticides the mother is responsible.
• There is a high prevalence of unemployment among those responsible for infanticide.
• The United Nations (UN) has rated South Africa as the worst country in the world in which to raise a child.
Pelser appeared in the Roodepoort Magistrates’ Court on 17 June. The state opposed bail and he will appear again on 22 June. He asked for legal aid.
Related articles: Man wanted for questioning in connection with baby’s death
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Father of deceased baby still missing
‘Never push a man to violence’ says father’s Facebook post
Detectives worked through the night
Father allegedly attempted suicide
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