The Minister of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Sindisiwe Chikunga, has welcomed the arrest of a 19-year-old man for allegedly assaulting his grandmother.
The teenager was arrested by the police in the Western Cape. This after being seen assaulting his grandmother in a video that went viral on social media.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the incident occurred last month at the grandmother’s home. At that time, officers were summoned to the scene. However, the family refused police assistance.
Teen arrested for assaulting his grandmother
Police spokesperson, Athlenda Mathe confirmed the arrest. She said: “The suspect was traced to Wallecedene in Kraaifontein on Wednesday evening. He is expected to appear before the Blue Downs magistrate’s court on a charge of assault.”
Chikunga said the department has reached out to the Western Cape department of social development. This is aimed at addressing the matter following the suspect’s arrest.
“Since then, the department has assigned social workers to the family for psychosocial support,” Chikunga said. The minister said this in a statement on Thursday.
Chikunga explained the nature of the unacceptable abuse of an older person. She said it occurs when any person does something or fails to do something that causes harm. It causes harm or distress, or is likely to cause harm or distress – to an older person. In this instance the perpetrator is in a relationship where there is an expectation of trust.
Deputy minister to visit victim in hospital
The department’s deputy minister, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, is expected to visit the grandmother. She was to visit her at Karl Bremere Hospital on Friday, 5 July, at 3:30pm, offer words of comfort.
In line with the Older Persons Act of 2006, South Africa joined global citizens last month on June 15. The day was to commemorate the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. To protect, promote and maintain the status, rights, well-being and security of older persons.
- SAnews.gov.za
