LIMPOPO – Provincial police commissioner Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe has condemned the rape of a 22-month-old toddler reported in Maphophe village under the Saselamani policing area in Vhembe last Tuesday.

Col Malesela Ledwaba, Limpopo police spokesperson, said according to information, the mother of the toddler woke up on the morning of May 6 and noticed that her child was unable to stand.

Child taken to hospital where assault confirmed

Upon further examination, she observed that the victim’s left knee was swollen. The mother took the child to a local hospital, where medical personnel confirmed that the toddler had been sexually assaulted.

A case of rape was subsequently opened at the Saselamani Police Station and has since been transferred to the Giyani family violence, child protection and sexual offences unit for specialised investigation.

The suspect remains unknown at this stage.

Police urge community to help identify suspect

Hadebe described the incident as deeply disturbing and immoral, saying it had occurred just days after the official launch of Child Protection Month.

“This is a shocking and heartbreaking crime. A baby of 22 months cannot speak for herself, and it is our duty to speak for her through action. Child Protection Month was launched to remind us all that children must be kept safe and yet here we are. I want to send a clear message: we will find the person responsible and we will ensure that justice is served.

“I am calling on anyone in that community who knows something to please come forward. Do it for that little girl,” Hadebe said.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the investigating officer, Const Collen Netile on 072 735 3572, their nearest police station, or to call the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111. Callers may also send a tip-off via the MySAPS App. All informants have the right to remain anonymous.