THE use of social media platforms by teenagers with minimal parental supervision could have devastating effects on their well-being. These are the views of the ward committee member for health, safety and security in Ward 68, Sharin Rajman.

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Rajman’s reaction comes after a 14-year-old girl from Merebank was allegedly raped after she befriended a 28-year-old man via Facebook.

The recent incident has rocked the community and reignited urgent calls for parental vigilance and tighter online safety for children.

The teenager, whose identity cannot be revealed, was allegedly lured by a 28-year-old man she had been interacting with on Facebook. The alleged incident happened in Newlands East between May 10 and 11.

According to police reports, the pair had been communicating over several weeks, building what appeared to the child as a friendship.

Rajman, a member of the ward committee for health, safety and security in Ward 68, expressed concern about the growing risks teenagers face online. “Parents need to be more aware of who their children are engaging with, both online and offline. We can’t afford to be passive,” she said.

She said the incident has highlighted the dark underbelly of social media where predators hide behind screens, pretending to be peers, mentors, or even romantic interests.

In a recent speech delivered by Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, he said rape cases have increased in KZN, Mpumalanga and the Free State.

In his address of the third quarter crime statistics, Mchunu said this data serves as a stark reminder that GBV remains a critical issue requiring intensified interventions.

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Authorities recommend that parents monitor their children’s online activity, activate privacy settings on apps, and talk openly with their children about online safety.

A report published in 2023 by the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE), revealed that GBV and child abuses are common in South Africa, with child grooming being the growing trend of child abuse.
CGE explains that sexual grooming is regulated by Section 18 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act, 32 of 2007.

“We need to create open communication channels, monitor their online activity, and teach them what danger looks like even if it comes in the form of a friendly message. It’s about building trust and staying involved,” Rajman added.

Police spokesperson for eThekwini District Captain, Carmen Rhynes confirmed that the suspect was arrested on May 12.
“The suspect appeared in court on May 15,” said Rhynes.

She said the matter remains on the court roll pending a decision following the completion of the full investigation.

To report child abuse call the following numbers:

• Childline South Africa: 116
• Child Welfare South Africa: 0861 4 CHILD (24453) / 011 452-4110 or e-mail: info@childwelfaresa.org.za
• The toll-free number to call is 0800 428 428 (0800 GBV GBV)
• Callers can also request a social worker from the command centre to contact them by dialing *120*7867# (free).

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