Four-month-old baby dies after alleged kidnapping in Atteridgeville

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has condemned the alleged kidnapping and death of a four-month-old baby and the alleged rape of the infant’s mother in Atteridgeville.

According to the Gauteng Provincial Government, preliminary reports indicate that a pastor and his wife allegedly lured the woman to the Hennops River near the R511 under the pretext of performing a ritual.

The provincial government said the pastor’s wife allegedly remained with the baby while the pastor and the woman walked towards the river, where the woman was reportedly tied up and assaulted.

Police have arrested the pastor’s wife, while the pastor, who is considered the main suspect, remains at large.

Law enforcement officers are searching the crime scene, surrounding areas and a nearby river for the suspect.

The provincial government also praised Department of Roads and Transport maintenance and construction teams for alerting authorities after noticing suspicious activity involving a man who appeared to have abducted a woman and her baby.

Their intervention enabled the Office of the Premier to mobilise additional law enforcement resources, including a helicopter search.

Lesufi expressed his condolences to the victim and her family.

“We condemn this savage act of barbarism that has taken an infant from a family, violated an innocent woman, and caused deep pain and anxiety to the family and the entire community,” said Lesufi.

He said the provincial government supports the South African Police Service investigation and urged anyone with information that could help locate the suspect to contact police.

The incident comes amid continued concern over violence against women and children in the province.

Lesufi said the provincial government would continue working with SAPS and communities and use available resources to address gender-based violence and femicide.