The Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court has sentenced a 37-year-old Bloemfontein mother to five years’ imprisonment, suspended for five years, for the abuse of her nine-year-old child.

Bloemfontein Courant reports the child’s teacher reportedly informed the mother of the child’s behaviour at school, and on April 24 took note that the child arrived at school with scratch marks on her face.

“Upon enquiry, she told the teacher that the visible injuries were caused by a dog,” stated local police spokesperson Sergeant Sinah Mpakane.

“The mother was called to the school and it was then determined that the mother caused the injuries.” The teacher reported the matter to the police and the suspect was arrested.

Investigations by the Mangaung Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit followed.