Durban - On the eve of the start of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign, a mother appeared in the Chatsworth Magistrate’s Court for allegedly abusing her 11-year-old daughter.
It is also alleged she would lock her daughter in a room with her partner who is being charged, alongside her, for rape, compelled rape, sexual assault and child abuse.
The 50-year-old mother and her 54-year-old partner, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the child, were arrested on Friday at their flat in Chatsworth.
They appeared briefly in court on Monday, each represented by separate private attorneys. The State said it was opposed to bail.
Outside court, Chatsworth residents demonstrated and held placards reading, “Say No To Rape” and “No Bail”.
Local councillor, Brandon Pillay, told the Daily News he met senior public prosecutor, Lolly Soobramoney, and informed her of the community’s outrage and motivated for bail to be denied.
He said the community felt that if the man, a taxi driver, was released, he would be in danger as they might take the matter into their own hands.
Many learnt of the couple’s first court appearance at child abuse victim Jamie Faith Naidoo’s one-year memorial service on Sunday, where the Chatsworth community were urged to take a united stand against such abuse.
It is believed the 11-year-old’s mother would be paid by her partner after he allegedly raped and abused the girl and that she would apparently lock her daughter in a room with the man.
It is further alleged that the authorities became aware of the abuse when the child escaped and fled to her sibling’s home.
The matter was adjourned until next week for a possible bail application.
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