Probe launched after 13-year-old boy allegedly rapes his five-year-old sister in Limpopo
The 13-year-old suspect remains in the care of his parents pending assessment by a probation officer, in accordance with the Child Justice Act.
Image: File
The police in Limpopo are investigating a distressing case of rape following an incident in which a 13-year-old boy allegedly sexually assaulted his five-year-old sister at their family home in Mundzedzi village, Bandelierkop policing area, Vhembe District.
The incident allegedly happened on Sunday afternoon.
“According to reports, the young victim disclosed to her parent that her older brother had allegedly called her into a room where the alleged assault took place,” said provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.
The victim was rushed to a local hospital for medical examination, where the medical personnel confirmed that the child had been sexually assaulted.
A case of rape was opened at Bandelierkop police station and has been transferred to the family violence, child protection and sexual offences (FCS) unit in Makhado for further investigation.
The 13-year-old suspect remains in the care of his parents pending assessment by a probation officer, in accordance with the Child Justice Act.
Meanwhile, the provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has expressed “profound shock and concern” over this disturbing incident involving minors.
"It is deeply troubling that we continue to witness such alleged heinous acts involving children, particularly within family settings. The fact that a child so young could allegedly commit such a serious crime against his own sibling is extremely concerning and raises critical questions about child supervision, exposure to inappropriate content, and early intervention," said Hadebe.
The provincial commissioner has urged parents and guardians to be vigilant in monitoring their children's behaviour, their exposure to media and technology, and to create safe environments where children can report uncomfortable situations without fear.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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