Shocking footage of child assault sparks widespread outrage
CRIMINAL CASE
A criminal case has been opened after the alleged assault against child.
Image: Screenshot
A DISTURBING video showing a child being beaten with what appears to be a stick, in Oudtshoorn has gone viral, prompting police investigation and community outrage.
Authorities have opened a case while community leaders call for calm and proper legal processes.
Police confirmed a criminal case was opened.
The graphic footage, which has circulated widely online, shows a person striking the crying child with what appears to be a stick while others stand nearby.
The child's screams could be heard as the alleged assault unfolded.
Western Cape's South African Police Service (Saps) spokesperson, Sergeant Wesley Twigg, told IOL that police have opened a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm following the incident on Friday.
"The incident occurred on the corner of Van der Riet Street and Kruid Street, where a female assaulted a child. The circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation, and arrests are yet to be made.
"Anyone with any information about this incident can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the mobile application MySAPS anonymously," he said.
The Secretary General of the People's Prosperity Movement (PPM), Chad Lou,w also weighed in.
He called for calm and due process.
"Regardless of what the children involved may or may not have done, under no circumstances may violence be used. If there was any wrong action, there are legal and proper processes to address it," he said.
He urged the public not to racialise the matter. "This case is not about race. Please do not try to send it in that direction. This is about a serious incident where violence was used, and it should be handled fairly and legally."
He added that the matter had escalated the issue to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and engaged with police leadership.
"I want to make it clear: I am not going to prescribe what the outcome should be.
"The appropriate authorities will follow the necessary processes and handle the case according to the law."