Boy sent for testing after fatal stabbing
. .
Cape Town - An eight-year-old boy who stabbed a three-year-old, leading to his death, while they were playing near their Mfuleni home has been sent for psychological assessment.
Liyabona Mgxebo was stabbed in the head with piece of wire and died in hospital on Tuesday.
Social Development MEC Albert Fritz, who visited Mgxebo’s family on Thursday, said social workers had been assigned to the case.
“It is important that both of the families get the necessary psychosocial support and assistance to deal with the related trauma of the incident,” he said.
“The situation is being assessed and all options are being weighed up.
“Any decisions taken will be done in the best interests of the child.”
Fritz said once the full assessments were completed and both families had been consulted, a decision about the eight-year-old’s future would be made by the courts.
Police spokesman Andre Traut said:
“A murder case was opened after Liyabona died in hospital.
“We are investigating.
“This also raises concerns that we as parents must tighten our control over young children who cannot defend themselves when they are confronted with danger.”
The police have appealed to parents, organisations and government departments to assist in ensuring the protection and well-being of children.
“It’s impossible for authorities to prevent attacks of a similar nature,” Traut said.
“An earnest effort is required in this regard so that children who cannot fend for themselves are protected by dangers lurking in their own homes.”
Cape Times