Grade 5 learner allegedly abused by Guardians taken to Zimbabwe

A Grade 5 learner from Skeen Primary School, who is allegedly a victim of abuse by her guardians, has been secretly taken to Zimbabwe, causing a significant delay in the investigation as critical evidence such as her medical report and statement remains unavailable. Meanwhile, the suspects continue to remain at large.

The family violence, child protection, and sexual offences commander confirmed that the child was taken out of South Africa before police could obtain her statement or conduct a medical examination - both essential for building a strong case.

"The learner's statement was not yet obtained and she had not been taken to a doctor. The learner must be taken to the doctor to prove the case," the commander said.

The investigating officer suspects that the accused guardians deliberately took the child to Zimbabwe in an effort to "kill the case." This suspicion was supported by Skeen Primary School's deputy principal, Masilo Lebeya, who revealed that the guardians removed the child abruptly, just before her June examinations and without informing the school.

"We only learned of her whereabouts when a social worker contacted one of the suspects, who admitted taking her to Zimbabwe," Lebeya said. He added that the school promptly reported the abuse case to Sandringham Police Station.

Regarding early signs of abuse, Lebeya explained that these only became apparent at a later stage. The school began counselling the child after confirming she was facing family difficulties. "Remember, we are dealing with many children. Sometimes by the time a teacher notices that intervention is needed, it is already late. It shows the child has been suffering in silence," he said. Lebeya emphasised that the school maintains a strong support system and encourages children to share their problems.

Police are currently trying to engage the accused guardians to cooperate with the investigation. Commander Matheba stressed that without their cooperation, building a legal case will be difficult.

"If they do not cooperate, we will have to work with Home Affairs' immigration authorities to verify the victim's legal status in South Africa," Matheba explained. "If she was here illegally, then authorities will need to assist in obtaining travel documents to facilitate her return to South Africa, which could be a lengthy process."

The stalled case highlights the challenges authorities face in protecting vulnerable children, especially when cross-border issues complicate investigations.