Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has strongly condemned the kidnapping and death of a four-month-old baby and the alleged rape of the baby's mother in Atteridgeville. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern. Lesufi expressed his condolences to the mother and family, emphasizing that no parent should ever face such trauma. He assured that the provincial government fully supports the South African Police Service in their investigation.
According to reports, the alleged rape and kidnapping occurred when a pastor and his wife lured the 43-year-old woman to the Hennops River under the pretext of performing a ritual. The pastor's wife allegedly stayed behind with the baby while the pastor and the victim walked toward the river, where she was reportedly tied up and assaulted. The body of the baby was discovered in a shallow grave on Wednesday.
The provincial government reported that authorities were alerted by Department of Roads and Transport maintenance and construction teams, who observed suspicious activities and reported them. The victim managed to free herself and seek help. The quick response enabled the Office of the Premier to mobilize law enforcement resources, including a helicopter search.
Lesufi emphasized that the provincial government will continue to use every available resource and work closely with the South African Police Service and communities to combat gender-based violence and femicide. He stressed that perpetrators must face the full force of the law. The incident has strengthened the province's determination to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The police have arrested the pastor's wife and are searching for the pastor, who is the main suspect. A manhunt has been launched to locate him. The provincial government has urged anyone with information that can help locate the suspect to contact the police immediately.
President Ramaphosa has also weighed in on the issue, highlighting the need for collective action to address the scourge of gender-based violence and femicide. The incident has sparked renewed calls for increased efforts to protect women and children. The national registry has given consumers the power to block unwanted marketing.
The Gauteng Premier's office has announced that the provincial government will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served in this case. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued efforts to address the root causes of gender-based violence and femicide in society.
Key points
- Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi condemns the kidnapping and death of a 4-month-old baby and alleged rape of the baby's mother.
- The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern, with calls for increased efforts to protect women and children.
- The provincial government has vowed to work closely with the police and communities to combat gender-based violence and femicide.
