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Child Activists Demand Action After Wellington Mom Posts Photos of Toddler in Gang Signs

In a disturbing incident that has shocked child advocacy groups, a Wellington mother, Shauneze Manelfe, has posted photographs of her toddler son seemingly showing allegiance to the notorious 28 gang. The image, which quickly went viral, has sparked outrage across social media and led to calls for immediate action.
The photograph shows the toddler—believed to be around three years old—wearing prison tjappies (gunyas), which are typically used by various prison gangs to communicate their ranks. In addition to the gang attire, the child is making gang signs with his hands, and the numbers “2” and “8” are visibly written on his arms, indicating his connection to the 28 gang, a notorious criminal group with deep ties to prison systems.

Picture: IOL
The post has ignited a wave of condemnation, particularly from child advocacy groups like the Callas Foundation. Caroline Peters, the foundation’s spokesperson, described the images as “clear child abuse,” regardless of whether the markings are permanent or temporary. Peters expressed her shock at the incident, stating, “You cannot as an adult indoctrinate a minor into a dangerous gang culture, and to then post it on social media is sickening.”
Further investigation of Manelfe’s social media profile has raised more alarms. Peters noted that the mother had previously posted images showing her child making gang signs with his hands, suggesting the child had been taught these behaviors by adults. Additionally, posts related to her boyfriend have also raised concerns, as he appears to be affiliating himself with the 28s gang. The Callas Foundation and other activists are urging the Department of Social Development (DSD) to intervene, conducting a full investigation into the matter.
Esther Lewis, a spokesperson for DSD, acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, stating that an investigation into potential child abuse must be conducted before determining the appropriate course of action. This involves performing a safety and risk assessment to understand the child’s environment and the level of intervention needed.
In a further plea for public help, Lewis encouraged anyone with information about the child’s safety or whereabouts to contact the Drakenstein local office at 021 871 1682 or email [email protected].
The case has raised important questions about the influence of gangs on young children and the role social media plays in propagating dangerous behavior. Activists are calling for swift action to ensure the safety and well-being of the child, and to send a message that such acts of child abuse will not be tolerated.
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