Acting on a tip-off, authorities in Pretoria North rescued four children from unsafe and neglectful conditions, highlighting the urgent need for child protection interventions.
Police officers acted swiftly on a tip-off about possible child neglect and abuse, according to police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk. The Soshanguve K9 Unit and social workers from the Department of Social Development were dispatched to assist at a smallholding in Pretoria North.
Van Dyk stated that when officers arrived at the scene, they found four children living in conditions deemed unsuitable for their well-being. The premises lacked proper maintenance, and concerns were raised about hygiene and overall safety. Social workers conducted an assessment and determined that the environment was not fit for children. As a result, authorities intervened to ensure the children were placed in a safer setting.
“Upon arrival, the team discovered five adults and four children, aged between one and four years old. Preliminary investigations conducted by social workers revealed that the premises were unsuitable for the children.”
Van Dyk added that the social workers recommended that the four minors receive immediate medical treatment.
He added that during the intervention, the Soshanguve K9 unit carried out a search of the premises, where they found a stash of drugs, prompting authorities to initiate a more detailed investigation.
“During the intervention, the Soshanguve K9 unit also searched the premises, leading to the discovery of drugs. Two males were arrested on drug possession charges and will appear in court shortly
“Ongoing investigations by social workers continue, and further charges related to child neglect may be instituted once medical reports and recommendations are received,” Van Dyk said.
Meanwhile, Major-General Samuel Thine extended his heartfelt thanks to the dedicated members of the team, emphasising that crimes against children will not be tolerated in the Tshwane community. He has issued a firm warning that all necessary resources will be utilised to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Thine also urged any person who suspects child neglect or abuse to report it immediately. Reports can be made by calling the SAPS Crime Stop number at 0800 10111 or by downloading the My SAPS Application and following the instructions for reporting. All information will be treated as confidential.
The Star