No arrests after 10-month-old’s legs broken in Saldanha assault

Police say no arrests have been made after a 10-month-old baby from Saldanha in the Western Cape was hospitalised with severe injuries, including both legs being broken, as authorities investigate an alleged assault.

Investigation under way

Provincial police spokesperson Constable Ndakhe Gwala said members of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit are handling the matter.

“Vredenburg FCS detectives are investigating a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and the suspect is yet to be arrested,”

Police have declined to provide further details about the investigation, citing the sensitive nature of the case.

Department of Social Development steps in

The Department of Social Development (DSD) has intervened to assist and safeguard the baby and an older sibling. The older sibling has been removed and placed in temporary safe care while the investigation continues.

Earlier this week, incoming MEC for Social Development Wendy Kaizer-Philander visited the child in hospital on Sunday to assess the baby’s condition and to confirm that child protection procedures were being followed. Kaizer-Philander said the case will be brought before the Children’s Court.

“The matter will be brought before the Children’s Court within 48 hours, where all relevant parties are given an opportunity to make representations. The court then considers the temporary placement of the child while the social worker conducts a comprehensive investigation into whether the child is in need of care and protection,”

Next steps

Authorities have opened a criminal investigation and social workers are conducting safety and protection processes. No arrest has been reported at this time.