Faizel Patel – Cii News & Agencies (06-07-12)

There are 20 Children murdered every week in South Africa. At least half of these deaths is a result of child abuse and neglect.  This is according to a new study conducted by the Medical Research Council who also say not enough is being done to prevent child killings.

The Medical Research Councils preliminary findings revealed that 1018 children were murdered in 2009. That’s 3 children killed everyday and almost double the global average which makes South Africa a very dangerous place for children.

Half of child murders were as a result of caregivers, three quarters of children were younger than 4 years old and sexual assault was suspected in a quarter of all murdered girls under the age of 18.

Researchers are adamant that a multi-pronged approach is required in tacking the scourge of child killings.

The MRC says the full report will be competed by August 2012

Faizel143@vodamail.co.za