The recent kidnapping and attempted rape of two young girls has prompted renewed calls for vigilance and child safety awareness by local activists.
On Friday, 19 September, the suspect — who according to sources, was recently released from jail after a nine-year sentence for rape — allegedly approached the two girls, aged 10 and 11, near the old Shoprite Centre in Atlantis. According to Captain Lisa Munro, police spokesperson, the 53-year-old suspect lured them into the nearby dunes on the outskirts of Atlantis under false pretences. “He has abandoned his bail application and will appear in court on the 28th of this month,” said Munro.
According to Janine Passenz, founder of the Survivors Haven Foundation in Mamre, kidnapping cases are not common in our communities. “This was the first one we’ve heard of in about five years. What has increased, however, are cases of rape and sexual assault, especially involving children,” she said.
Her organisation works closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other partners to raise awareness about child safety and sexual violence. “Through our Breaking the Silence programme, which airs every Monday, and our collaborations with SAPS during school holidays at the Atlantis Library, we continue to educate families and young people,” she explained. Their new focus is on reaching children earlier. “We’ve realised that prevention must start from an early age, even at ECD centres. We’re preparing new safety education programmes for primary schools in partnership with SAPS and local government departments.” Passenz urged parents to take a more active role in protecting their children. “Keep communication open. Know your child’s friends, monitor their social media, and pay attention to any behavioural changes. Safety starts at home, and parents must understand that protecting children is not just the duty of SAPS or teachers,” she said.
Monthany Hendriks, founder and chairperson of Atlantis Search and Rescue, said she was deeply unsettled by the incident. “This is the first time I’ve heard of a kidnapping involving children in this age group in our area. The last case I recall was the abduction of two Chinese nationals in Chatsworth, but this one hit closer to home. It reminded us that danger can surface anywhere.” Hendriks said it is vital for children to understand who a stranger is. “A stranger is anyone they don’t know well or trust — even if that person seems nice, smiles, or offers gifts. Not all strangers are dangerous, but children must always be careful around people they don’t know,” she added.
Both women agreed that child safety is a shared responsibility, starting with awareness, communication, and a united community effort to protect the most vulnerable.
