A child protection investigation is underway after a 10-month-old baby from Saldanha on the West Coast was admitted to hospital with serious injuries, including fractures to both legs.
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Western Cape Social Development MEC Wendy Kaizer-Philander visited the baby in hospital on Sunday to assess the child's condition and ensure that the appropriate child protection measures were being followed.
Social workers have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the injuries. The baby's older sibling has also been removed from the home and placed in temporary safe care while the investigation continues.
A criminal case has been opened, and the South African Police Service is investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The matter is expected to go before the Children’s Court, which will consider the child's temporary placement while social workers conduct a broader investigation.
The Department of Social Development says it received 6,737 reports of child abuse and neglect during the 2025/26 financial year. Deliberate neglect accounted for most of the reports, followed by sexual and physical abuse.
Authorities are urging anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect to report it to the relevant authorities immediately.
Done By Liema Nyengule
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