South Africa: Limpopo Child Rape Suspect Still At Large As Family Struggles to Access Care

A seven-year-old girl with a developmental disability was raped in Limpopo on August 21st, according to her mother. The alleged perpetrator, a known community member, dragged the child to the bushes and raped her, before fleeing the scene. The girl was immediately taken to Helen Franz Hospital for medical examination and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

However, her mother has struggled to access subsequent medical or psychological support due to the family's inability to afford the transport needed to return to the hospital. The perpetrator has not been arrested, and the child has encountered him since the traumatic incident. The mother reports that her daughter's wellbeing has deteriorated, with the girl crying at night and struggling to concentrate.

Professor Angie Maphula, a clinical psychologist, stated that rape victims often experience long-term psychological effects, such as post-traumatic stress disorder. The Limpopo Department of Health stated that immediate treatment involves testing and providing PEP, along with trauma counselling from a psychologist, which is only offered at a therapeutic environment like a hospital.

The provincial Department of Social Development sent a social worker to the child's home to provide psychosocial support. Police confirmed opening a case of rape and intensified efforts to trace the suspect, but he remains at large.