Rumours as yet unfounded
There are a number of rumours doing the rounds at the moment with regards the father accused of abusing his family. Police are still investigating these.
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.
Beeld has made a mockery of journalism – using rumours & hearsay for absolute sensationalism. There’s no doubt that things were not well in that house, but some of the allegations may yet be found to have no truth or substance. Overzealous “journalism” needs editors worth their salt to oversee that rumours are not portrayed as fact on their pages. Instead, any scruples they may have simply vanish with the prospect of a sensational splash that’ll make the paper fly off the shelves. Don’t be so naïve as to believe everything you read or hear …