Soshanguve police note decline in child abuse cases
“The numbers have decreased because parents are taking extra precautions to protect their children.”
The Soshanguve police have noticed a decrease in the number of child abuse cases.
Soshanguve spokesperson Zanele Mtsweni said the change was as a result of awareness campaigns such as Child Protection week, which was commemorated from 28 May to 4 June.
Mtsweni said because the perpetrators of child abuse were already close to the victim, the awareness campaigns had made parents more vigilant.
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“In 2016 a lot of children were being sexually abused by people they trust, normally their uncles, brothers and stepfathers,” said Mtsweni
“This year the numbers have decreased because parents are taking extra precautions to protect their children. We are also working very hard to spread the message to schools that children should be educated on sexual offences.”
But Lilian Rampisa, a resident of Block G, was still unhappy.
“This should not even be happening… it breaks my heart because I have children. These days one cannot trust anyone with one’s children. The police and the community must work together to catch these people,” Rampisa said
Thembinkosi Mhlongo a resident of Block H told Record she was happy the number had decreased.
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Mtsweni urged parents to continue to be vigilant.
“Monitor your children’s activities and take note of what they are engaging in.
When you notice that someone is taking unusual interest in your child, find out who the person is.”
She asked parents to educate their children about their bodies and warn them not to allow anyone to touch them inappropriately.
“It is also essential to monitor your children’s activities on social media to ensure they are not exposed to pornography or any other inappropriate content or chatting to strangers.”
Mtsweni said if residents wished to report any child-related abuse, they should dial 112.
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