A Free State father (34) who was arrested for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm against his daughter (5) is expected to apply for bail in the magistrate’s court in Senekal on Monday (13/11).

The assault took place on Friday (3/11) after the father reprimanded her for coming home late and allegedly assaulted her. She has lived with him since her mother passed away.

“He smeared her face with glue and she lost some of her teeth. The police were summoned to the house by neighbours and the father was arrested,” said Free State police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring.

Community members held demonstrations outside the court. Picture: SABC/YouTube

The girl was admitted to a nearby hospital to receive treatment. “The condition of the child is unknown… Once she has recovered she will be kept in a safe place by social workers,” said Mophiring.

Community members marched to court on Monday (6/11) and held demonstrations against child abuse. 

“It is really good to see a community coming out strongly against the physical abuse of children,” child rights activist Joan van Niekerk has told the SABC. “Corporal punishment is harmful to children. Any form of it can impact the child’s well-being.

Members of the community outside the court. Picture: SABC/YouTube

“Often the police do not see this as a crime against children and they are very reluctant to open a case unless the abuse is so serious it results in physical injury to the child.”

OFM News/Zenande Mpame corne/daphné/Morné