The civil rights organisation, Action Society has vented its outrage after yet another elderly woman was attacked by her own grandson. This comes after a 71-year-old woman was recently raped and abused in Strand.
The crime – which occurred on 13 August 2024 – was reportedly not an isolated incident. The suspect (27) was apprehended and charged in the Strand Magistrates’ Court, where he will return on 2 September 2024.
READ MORE: 71-year-old Strand grandmother raped by her grandson
In July, two other grandmothers; one in Wallacedene and another in Langa were also accosted by their grandsons.
In addition, the Western Cape Department of Social Development recorded 15 cases of elder abuse in the first quarter of 2024/2025.
The Head of Action Society’s Action Centre, Kaylynn Palm said it is a worrying trend:
“This growing trend of abuse towards the elderly should concern all South Africans. They are our most vulnerable people in society and any kind of violence should not be tolerated under any circumstances,” said Palm.
She said that while 15 cases may have been recorded, there are more victims, as not all cases are reported to authorities.
“We believe there are other senior citizens who are being abused, but remain silent because of fear. We are calling on community members to be the eyes and ears and report these incidents,” concluded Palm.
