'Grave concern'

THE Department of Woman, Children and People with Disabilities says it is saddened by the incident.

"If the allegations against the police officers are true, then it is a matter of grave concern to all of us as it amounts to a serious form of child abuse," ministerial spokesman Cornelius Monama said.

"We suggest that this incident should be reported to the police and also to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). We are confident that our law enforcement agencies will be able to get to the bottom of this matter. We are deeply concerned about the spate of disappearances, kidnappings and killings of children.

"We are on record calling for the heaviest possible punishment against those who molest, abuse and exploit our children. We call upon parents and community members to remain vigilant at all times because there is a number of people who prey on innocent children," he said.

Koster branch commander Captain Pieter van der Merwe advised the family to come forward and make a sworn statement.

"Charges must be laid against the police involved and we just can't leave this matter unattended," he said.