A shocking video of a 4-year-old boy being encouraged to smoke Mandrax went viral, sparking widespread outrage on social media.
The video shows the toddler lighting a Mandrax pipe and inhaling, with two male voices urging him on. After inhaling, the men tell him to blow out slowly, and the child looks proud of himself.
Thanks to a tip-off from the public, the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) arrived at the suspects’ home in Bertha Flats, Newclare, Johannesburg. The child’s mother and two others were arrested after confessing to using Mandrax and filming the incident. The child was taken to a safe place after receiving medical attention.
Pastor Curt Van Heerden, CEO and founder of Institution of Grace, played a crucial role in locating the suspects and ensuring the child’s safety. He stayed with the suspects until the police arrived and provided updates on the case and the child’s well-being.
Van Heerden is known for his work in helping individuals struggling with addiction and has established Institution of Grace as a restoration centre to assist those in need.
Social media users were outraged by the video, demanding justice for the child. Many praised Pastor Van Heerden for his proactive approach.
One said: “Imagine if there was no social media.”
Another one wrote, “They are caught and locked up. Go to Pastor Curt Van Heerden’s page and see videos. Pastor Curt did a phenomenal job last night.”
“Would’ve never been found if it were up to SAPS, thank you, Curt Van Heerden,” said one.
The suspects appeared in the Johannesburg Regional Court facing charges related to child abuse under the Domestic Violence Act.
The case has been postponed to the 4th of August.
Also see: Traditonal healer among several arrested for forcing 71-year-old man to initiation school