'Remove the video': NPA irritated as Facebook user live-streams toddler-drugs case
The NPA said a Facebook account unlawfully streamed the court proceedings live, and revealed the faces of the accused people, in direct violation of a court order explicitly prohibiting such exposure.
Image: Screengrab/IOL
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says it has noted with concern the live-streaming of court proceedings in the matter against the Westbury mother and three co-accused.
The trio appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court on Thursday.
The case relates to a viral video in which a four-year-old boy was seen smoking substances believed to be drugs alongside adults.
Gauteng regional spokesperson for the NPA, Phindi Mjonondwane, said a Facebook account unlawfully streamed the proceedings live, and revealed the faces of the accused people, in direct violation of a court order explicitly prohibiting such exposure.
“It is important to note that the victim in this matter is a minor, whose identity and rights are protected under the Child Justice Act. Sharing or distributing any content that could expose the child’s identity not only violates the law but also endangers the child’s safety and dignity,” said Mjonondwane.
“The NPA strongly condemns this conduct and calls on the account holder to remove the video immediately.
“Members of the public are also urged to refrain from sharing or engaging with such content and to respect the authority of the court and the rights of the child involved,” she said.
The NPA said it remains committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of vulnerable members of society, especially children.
On Thursday, IOL reported that four people appeared before the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court, facing charges including child abuse, after a distressing video showing a toddler smoking a mandrax-laced pipe went viral.
The four people, including the mother of the four-year-old boy, were remanded in custody until Monday next week. The four have also been charged with attempted murder for forcing the minor to inhale the drugs.
Community members and political party officials gathered outside the court, condemning the actions of the four accused.
On Wednesday, IOL reported that the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) arrested the accused people. The video went viral, leading to a tip-off, which led to the arrests.
The video showed a young boy lighting drugs in a bottle neck for his mother, who then allegedly encouraged him to smoke, all in the presence of other adults.
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