Cosmo City demands justice for assaulted girl
A 12-year-old disabled girl, known and Precious, suffered abuse at the hands of a family friend. Now, after the suspect was released, Cosmo City residents fight for justice, demanding better laws to safeguard vulnerable children.
Cosmo City is in uproar as residents demand justice for a 12-year-old disabled girl, known as Precious, who was allegedly raped multiple times in her home. The shocking case has exposed the dangers faced by vulnerable children and sparked urgent calls for stronger laws to protect them.
Precious, who has a mental disability, was reportedly left in the care of her mother, who struggles with alcohol addiction, and an older brother, who is said to use drugs.
Read more: Justice sought for mentally disabled 12-year-old in Cosmo City rape case
Community members say this unsafe environment allowed a man, known to the family, to exploit her. Medical tests confirmed the assault, but the suspect was released after an initial arrest, with police citing a lack of evidence.
Precious’s disability made it difficult for her to identify the attacker, revealing serious gaps in how authorities handle cases involving special needs victims.
Local councillor Elmari Atterbury, of ActionSA, stepped in after Precious’ sister raised the alarm. “The trauma this young girl has faced is unimaginable. We cannot allow her voice to be silenced,” Atterbury said. She praised the arrest, but called for a thorough investigation and better protections for vulnerable children.
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Angry residents, joined by groups like Sekwanele-Golekane and ActionSA, protested outside Emperors Palace in Kempton Park. They handed a memorandum to Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, who promised to respond within 14 days. “We will not stand by while our children suffer in silence. This is a call for change,” said a community member.
A protest organiser from Sekwanele-Golekane added: “This isn’t just about one girl; it’s about all those who suffer in silence. Precious’ case should wake us up to fight harder for disabled children.”
This tragedy highlights a broader crisis in South Africa, where vulnerable children often face abuse without justice. As Cosmo City fights for Precious, activists hope her story will lead to lasting change, rather than becoming another forgotten headline.
The mother, who was arrested for negligence, had a bail hearing scheduled for May 2, which was postponed to May 5. However, on May 5, it was postponed again to May 8, due to the judge being on leave. Residents remain hopeful that justice will be served.
Community activist and ActionSA member Bulelwa Mbono commented: “What is very sad, is that we still haven’t seen the man who assaulted the child. Names were mentioned, but we only see the mother, and that is very concerning”.
The case has gained widespread attention online, with #Justice4Precious trending on TikTok and X. Social media users are demanding tougher laws to protect disabled children and end gender-based violence.
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