Probe into ‘rape’ of a minor at north hospital underway
A preliminary report, on this matter, has been submitted to the Gauteng Health’s Head of Department at the Central Office.
Police and the Department of Health are investigating the alleged rape of a minor, who was in Covid-19 isolation at Dr George Mukhari academic hospital in Ga-Rankuwa, north of Pretoria.
According to media reports the child is believed to be two years old, but authorities had not confirmed the age at the time of print.
The investigation was receiving priority attention “in line with our commitment to prioritise the investigation of crimes against women and children”, said police spokesperson Brigadier Mathapelo Peters.
“The minor’s parent, who is the complainant in the case will be kept abreast of developments in the investigation.”
She said acting Gauteng SAPS provincial commissioner Major-General Johan Ndlovu had ordered an “urgent” departmental investigation into allegations of negligence by police officers when the alleged rape was initially reported.
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This follows allegations of negligence by the family after they first reported the incident at Ga-Rankuwa police station.
Peters said Gauteng police management viewed the allegations of negligence in a “very serious light”.
She said the outcome of the internal investigation would determine the punishment of officers, should they be found guilty.
No arrests have been made.
Gauteng health department spokesperson Kwara Kekana said the hospital was also holding its own investigation.
A preliminary report on the matter was submitted to the department’s head office.
Kekana said the hospital was in “constant contact” with the child’s family.
The alleged victim is under the care of her family.
“We can assure the community that the hospital will take all the necessary measures to ensure the safety of all community members under our care,” she said adding that the department hoped the police and hospital investigations would help address the matter and bring it to a conclusion.
Dr George Mukhari hospital spokesperson Zwide Ndwandwe said the hospital has put measures in place to support the family pending the outcome of the investigation.
“There is no suspect that has been charged at this stage. The ongoing investigation has not yet established details to clarify the allegations.
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“We, however, wish to put it on record there is no evidence to point out that the alleged rape took place on our premises. However, we always put in all the necessary measures to ensure the safety of all stakeholders.”
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