Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the rape of a seven-year-old girl following a breakthrough investigation by the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Humansdorp in the Eastern Cape.

According to The Witness, police said the child was admitted to the paediatric oncology ward at a Gqeberha provincial hospital on January 14 after being diagnosed with a severe and critical medical condition.

“During her medical treatment, doctors made a distressing discovery: The child was also a victim of sexual abuse.”

Following further investigation and the child’s recovery, she was later able to disclose details of the alleged abuse. Police said the suspects are known to the victim.

The FCS Unit acted swiftly, leading to two arrests: A 39-year-old male and a 44-year-old female. Both suspects face charges of rape.

A heartbreaking incident

“They are scheduled to make their first appearance in the Humansdorp Magistrate’s Court on Monday,” said police.

Eastern Cape police commissioner Lieutenant General Vuyisile Ncata expressed sadness at the incident.

“This is heartbreaking. A child fighting a critical condition was betrayed by the very people meant to protect her.

“I commend the medical team and our FCS Unit for their swift action. We will pursue all perpetrators of crimes against women and children until justice is served.”

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.