'Raped baby will survive'
2001-11-05 13:53
Jeanne-Marie Versluis
Kimberley - Doctors believe the nine-months-old baby girl from Upington who was allegedly raped and indecently assaulted by six men will survive, although they say it is difficult to tell whether she will be able to live a normal, healthy life.
The baby, who is being treated in the intensive care unit of the Kimberley Hospital, has undergone surgery twice since her ordeal a couple of weeks ago.
More operations are likely to follow to correct the serious injuries to her anus, rectum and colon. The little girl also sustained tears to her pelvis.
Doctors say she is in a critical but stable condition.
Head of the Coalition for Children's Rights, Nicole Barlow, organised a special fund-raising drive in Kimberley over the weekend. She said nurses at the hospital were extremely protective of the baby and were giving her excellent care.
The little girl was allegedly raped on Friday night, October 26 in the Louisvale township after her mother (16) left her in the care of an unknown person while she went shopping for food.
The mother was arrested for riotous behaviour shortly after the incident. She was reportedly under the influence of liquor and fined R100. Charges of negligence are also being investigated.
The fund account number for the baby and her family is: Absa Bank, Kimberley, 405 437 6601.
- Volksblad