Investigation launched after baby’s severe injuries in Saldanha

A 10-month-old baby from Saldanha, West Coast, has been hospitalized due to severe injuries, including fractures in both legs. Social workers have launched a child protection investigation in response to the incident, with the baby's older sibling placed into temporary safe care. A criminal case has been opened by the South African Police Service to investigate the circumstances surrounding the injuries.

The matter will be brought before the Children's Court within 48 hours for further proceedings. The Department of Social Development has received 6,737 reports of child abuse and neglect during the 2025/26 financial year, with most cases falling under the category of deliberate neglect. Kaizer-Philander emphasized the commitment to protecting vulnerable children and warned against any harm to children, stating that the government will use every lawful means to ensure accountability.

Brief written by urgent.news from IOL's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.