Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has strongly condemned a heinous crime in Atteridgeville, where a four-month-old baby was kidnapped and murdered, and the mother raped. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, with Lesufi offering his sincere condolences to the mother and family. He described the act as savage barbarism that has caused deep pain and anxiety to the family and the entire community.
According to Lesufi, his office fully supports the investigation being conducted by the police into the incident, which took place on Wednesday. He urged those responsible to face the full force of the law and called on anyone with information that can help locate the suspect to contact the police immediately. Lesufi emphasized the need for collective effort to bring the perpetrator to justice.
The provincial government has vowed to continue using every available resource and working closely with the South African Police Service and communities to combat gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF). Lesufi stated that recent attacks on women and children, including this incident, have strengthened the province's determination to ensure criminals face the full force of the law.
Police reports indicate that the 43-year-old mother had gone to the Hennops River near R511 Road accompanied by her pastor and his wife for a ritual. During the ritual, the pastor's wife remained behind with the baby while the pastor and the woman proceeded towards the river. It is alleged that the woman was raped and tied up, but she later freed herself and sought assistance at a nearby construction site.
The police have confirmed that the pastor's 24-year-old wife pointed out the shallow grave where the baby was buried. A manhunt has been launched for the pastor, who remains on the run. The police are working to apprehend the suspect and bring closure to the family and the community.
Lesufi's condemnation of the incident is part of a broader effort to address GBVF in South Africa. The province has been working to implement measures to prevent and combat violence against women and children. The incident has highlighted the need for continued efforts to address this scourge.
The community in Atteridgeville remains in shock, and the family of the victim is yet to come to terms with the tragic loss. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and collective action to prevent such heinous crimes. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing the perpetrator to justice.
Key points
- Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi condemns the kidnapping and murder of a four-month-old baby and the rape of the mother in Atteridgeville.
- The provincial government vows to continue using every available resource to combat gender-based violence and femicide.
- A manhunt has been launched for the pastor, who is suspected of committing the crime and remains on the run.
