I am saddened, and at the same time angered by the discovery of the body of three year old Olivia Voeght.
Saddened by her untimely and unnecessary death and angered by the fact that there now seems to be an alleged situation of child neglect. We’ve learned that SAPS have arrested the parents on allegations of child neglect. I have assigned social workers to the matter.
Too often children fall prey to criminals in our society, because the very people who must love, care for and protect them, have abandoned their responsibilities. In this instance it appears little Olivia was allegedly left unattended while her parents were out.
We will be investigating the full circumstances around her disappearance and will cooperate with SAPS and the Department of Justice to ensure that if found guilty, the parents and perpetrators are brought to book.
Let this be a lesson to all parents. The safety and protection of your child is firstly your responsibility and parents whose negligence places their children’s lives in danger, will have to face the full force of the law.
Media enquiries:
Melany Kühn, Spokesperson for Minister Fritz
Cell: 083 280 9199
