Man, 33, in court for forcing child to drink beer in Mitchells Plain

A 33-YEAR-OLD man was expected to appear in court today after being arrested on a charge of child abuse after a video surfaced of him allegedly forcing a four-year-old boy to drink beer.

Days ago police together with social workers from the Department of Social Development (DSD) removed four children between the ages of seven months and 11-years-old from the Tafelsig home in Mitchells Plain.

Police spokesperson, Captain FC Van Wyk explained: "A 33-year-old man was arrested on Saturday morning, November 29. He will appear in the Mitchells Plain Magistrates Court on Monday, December 1, for the mentioned charge.” 

Last week, Cape Argus revealed that whistleblowers called on police to react to a video where the young boy was allegedly forced to drink Black Label beer.

The child also appeared to have bruises on his body. Van Wyk confirmed at the time that a child abuse case was registered for investigation at Mitchells Plain SAPS.

He said: "This case was transferred to Mitchells Plain Family Violence Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS).

"Four children aged between seven months and 11 years were removed by personnel attached to the Department of Social Development and placed in the care of safety parents. These children were also taken to Thutuzela Centre for medical examination."

DSD said it condemns this type of behaviour, where adults allow children to consume and handle alcohol.