MUST READ: Seven year old girl sexually assaulted at Paradise Sports Grounds

A seven-year-old girl was left traumatised after she was allegedly sexually assaulted at the Paradise Sports Grounds on Monday (June 4).

According to reports, the incident occurred after the suspect lured the minor to the grounds by offering her sweets.

The child followed the man, who then proceeded to sexually assault her once he thought they were out of sight.

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Mark and Seshne Jacobs of Two Eagles Security, confirmed the incident had occurred on Monday afternoon at about 2.30pm.

According to them, a friend of the victim apparently witnessed the assault and reported it to a group of taxi drivers who were in the vicinity.

A part-time vendor and employee of Two Eagles, Jairaj Bhoodoo, who was at the primary school at the time, saw the commotion and thought there was a fight breaking out between learners.

He then contacted Mark and Seshne, who immediately responded to the call for assistance.

Upon arrival, they were informed of what had transpired and with the help of taxi drivers, the suspect was successfully apprehended.

Mark then summoned SAPS, who took the suspect into police custody.

“The little girl was placed in the school’s care before being released into her grandmother’s custody.”

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According to Mark, a meeting was held between Two Eagles, taxi drivers and the school’s Principal, Mr S.T. Mgaga, who decided certain measures were to be put in place to ensure the safety of children in the area.

It was decided an area would be identified within the school grounds to be designated for the taxis to pick up children in the afternoons, rather than outside near the sports grounds.

Seshne also said there were further safety measures in the pipeline, of which the community would be made aware once implemented.

“We are also looking to the municipality to take steps to secure the grounds, as it has become a haven for prostitution, drug abuse, drinking and even bunking school.”

The Jacobs’s thanked the taxi drivers, the vice principal and Bhoodoo for their help in successfully apprehending the suspect.

Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications and Liaison Officer, Captain Jabulani Ncube confirmed the incident had occurred, and said a case of sexual assault was being investigated.

The 62-year-old suspect will appear in the Newcastle Magistrate’s Court soon.

Captain Ncube advised children not to associate with strangers, and not to accept gifts from them either.

• Do not loiter in quiet areas, and always stay in groups rather than by yourself when waiting for transport.
• Educators should also ensure the safety of children while they are waiting for transport.
• Do not allow anybody to touch you inappropriately, and if this happens, report it immediately.

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