A mother was sentenced to 10 years’ direct imprisonment after she beat her child with a belt for allegedly stealing a R100 note.
The 12-year-old girl, who is under the care of her grandparents, was sleeping at home when her mother arrived and dragged her out of bed, accusing her of stealing money.
The child denied this. The mother then started assaulting her with a leather belt.
The child was taken to the doctor by her grandparents and they also reported the incident to the police.
On 26 February, the mother pleaded guilty to the charges.
She was accused of showing no remorse and blaming the child.
The court stated that it is the upper guardian of all children and it is their responsibility to send out a message to the community that violence against children will not be tolerated.
