SIYABUSWA – Nompumelelo Msiza, the mother of a three-year-old girl who was allegedly molested by a Pakistani national, says her child has become aggressive since the incident.
The alleged molestation occurred during the school holidays. It is alleged that the father, who works at the Pakistani’s store, would regularly take his daughter to work, which is when the incident occurred.
Nompumelelo explained that she only found out about the incident when her daughter returned from school holidays with her father. “When I was bathing her, she refused to be bathed on her private parts. When I asked what’s wrong, she asked if I wouldn’t be upset if she told me,” said Nompumelelo.
The child told her mother that the man took something and put it inside her, and blood came out, and he then took a cloth to wipe the blood.
Nompumelelo expressed dissatisfaction with the way the Siyabuswa police station is handling the case and is now being assisted by the Johannesburg police. She has taken her daughter to Charlotte Maxeke Hospital for a check-up, citing doubt on the first check up. Nompumelelo further expressed her loss of trust in the Siyabuswa police, accusing them of allowing themselves to be bought by the Pakistanis.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga has responded to recent allegations regarding the alleged rape of the young girl. The incident is said to have occurred in December 2024 and was reported by the child’s mother on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
A case was opened and assigned to the KwaMhlanga Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. Upon being notified, members of the FCS Unit acted swiftly, taking the child to a nearby hospital for a medical examination. During the investigation, it was reported that a man suspected of being involved in the alleged rape of the three-year-old was apprehended and assaulted by community members. The suspect was then taken to the Siyabuswa Police Station.
The rape case docket was submitted to the Senior Prosecutor for a decision. However, contrary to public belief, the case was not enrolled, and the suspect was released without bail. The man appeared in court on February 4 and was released pending further investigations.
The SAPS has assured the public that they are committed to ensuring that justice is served in this case and that the rights of all parties involved are protected.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr.) Zeph Mkhwanazi, emphasized that rape, especially when it involves a child, is an exceptionally sensitive matter.
The SAPS remains resolute in treating all victims of crime with dignity, respect, and a victim-centered approach. “We approach such cases with discretion, kindness, delicacy, and sensitivity, without compromising the well-being of those affected,” said the General.
