A Cape Town community is reeling after an 11-year-old girl was allegedly sexually exploited for R100, leading to arrests and a police investigation.
According to IOL, the case emerged after a video recorded in the Masincedane Informal Settlement in Strandfontein spread on social media. In the video, a resident raised concerns about the child’s welfare and alleged that her parents were allowing her to be sexually exploited for money.
Police confirm arrests
IOL reported that Western Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed that police are investigating a rape and sexual exploitation case involving an 11-year-old girl.
Police said the circumstances surrounding the case remain under investigation.
The girl’s parents were reportedly arrested after the allegations surfaced. Her mother was later released. Another man, who is alleged to have paid for access to the child, was also arrested.
Police confirmed that two suspects, aged 20 and 47, appeared in the Mitchells Plain Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 11 August.
Both were remanded in custody and are expected to return to court for a formal bail application on Monday, 17 August.
Strandfontein Community Policing Forum chairperson Sandy Schuter said the organisation acted after becoming aware of the case.
Schuter said crimes against children require urgent action from parents, residents, community leaders and authorities.
The CPF has indicated that it intends to oppose bail when the suspects return to court.
Social Development response investigated
Questions have also been raised about the response from social services, particularly as other minor children were reportedly living in the household.
Western Cape Social Development MEC Jaco Londt confirmed that the department is cooperating with the police Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit investigation. His current role as provincial Social Development Minister is also confirmed by the Western Cape Government.
The department has launched an internal investigation into allegations that there was a delay in responding to concerns about the children.
Londt said the investigation would identify possible gaps in the department’s response and determine where services could be improved.
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