More than three weeks have passed since the alleged rape of a Gr 3 learner was reported at Edenridge Primary School in Alberton.

Police say they are ‘working around the clock’ to find the perpetrator after a case of rape was opened on October 29 at Eden Park SAPS.

Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mavela Masondo confirmed to Alberton Record that police are working on the case. “The case has been escalated to the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit. The investigation is underway and no arrest has been made yet,” he said.

However, with a perpetrator yet to be brought to book, the nine-year-old’s parents want answers after their child was ‘robbed of her childhood and innocence’.

The distraught 43-year-old father of the young victim, who cannot be named, said they were disheartened as a family to learn of this incident.

“We are pleased that police have intervened and are busy conducting investigations. Our child is receiving counselling,” he added.

Affected learner receiving support

Gauteng Department of Education spokesperson Steve Mabona said: “The department is disheartened to learn about the alleged sexual assault of a Grade Three learner that took place at Edenridge Primary School on October 24. Allegedly, the perpetrator is a fellow Grade Six or Seven learner.”

He said the affected learner is receiving the necessary psychological support and that the matter has been reported to SAPS.

“We urge learners to abide by the school code of conduct and refrain from acts of misconduct. We also appeal to parents to assist the department to enforce discipline in and outside the school environment,” added Mabona.

Concerned residents

Eden Park community members stormed the school on November 1 to address the school principal on the incident.

Community leader and local PR councillor Sphelele Rilityana said they are prepared to see the case through until justice prevails.

“The whole community is disturbed by this incident, [as made] evident when residents visited the school,” he said.

Rilityana mentioned they stand in solidarity with the family during this time to offer support.