MEC calls for justice for Mandeni child sex abuse victim

An eight-year-old girl has been removed from her residence in Mandeni after Social Development MEC Nonhlanhla Khoza intervened in the young victim’s alleged ongoing sexual abuse.

Khoza said she was approached by members of the public to intervene and rescue the girl.

“According to the little information we have, the victim previously lived with her mother in the eShowe/Gingindlovu area. It is alleged that during that period she was sexually assaulted by her mother’s boyfriend,” said Khoza.

Khoza further alleged that this matter was concealed by the child’s mother, and she further exposed the girl to abuse as she took her on her rounds, drinking at taverns.

“The victim’s aunt intervened by providing refuge for her in Mandeni. Tragically, the abuse continued as the child was exploited by different men in the area due to her vulnerability,” said Khoza.

“It is alleged that she would leave home in search of men who would take turns sleeping with her.

“In social media posts, it is alleged that members of the public had been trying to get help for the victim, claiming the social workers could not come to the rescue of the child. No record of the matter was found to have been reported at the local office,” she said.

The child has since undergone psychiatric evaluation and placed at the School of Industries based on the psychologist’s recommendation.

“Our team has traced the family and the matter is receiving the attention it deserves. However, we want to see the law take its course,” she said.

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