Pretoria- Government has welcomed the Palm Ridge High Court sentencing of Nathaniel Mpoku for the kidnap and murder of three-year old Cuburne van Wyk.
The court sentenced Mpoku to life imprisonment for murdering the toddler. He was also sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for kidnapping and the sentences will run concurrently.
“Government is satisfied that justice has been served for Cuburne. Government has adopted a zero-tolerance approach towards child abuse and will continue to safeguard and protect children from violence, exploitation and abuse,” Acting Cabinet spokesperson Phumla Williams said on Friday.
The Constitution protects children through law enforcement agencies which are at the forefront in ensuring the safety of children.
Several mechanisms put in place by government to deal with crimes against children include, amongst others, the training of police on issues of sexual violence to improve investigations, prosecutions and victim support.
Currently, there are 919 Victim Friendly Facilities rendering victim support services that are located in police stations countrywide.
“Communities are encouraged to work with law enforcement agencies and the judicial system to ensure that perpetrators of crimes against children are brought to book.
The old adage says it takes a village to raise a child, therefore, the onus is on every South African to play their part. Children are also advised to report such incidents to parents, teachers, or any person that they trust. Children can also call Childline on 08 000 55 555,” Williams said.-SAnews.gov.za
