Police launch investigation into shocking viral video of children drinking alcohol
Outrage as video shows minors drinking alcohol in presence of adults Outrage as video shows minors drinking alcohol in presence of adults
Image: Screenshot/Social Media
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said it is tracing the parents and guardians of children filmed consuming alcohol in a viral video earlier this week.
The clip, which first made waves on social media, apparently captures Christmas celebrations where minors, some under the age of ten, were seen drinking alcohol in the presence of an adult woman.
The Eastern Cape Department of Social Development has called the incident a disturbing trend that demands immediate attention.
MEC Bukiwe Fanta commented, “Allowing children to consume alcohol undermines their development and exposes them to a myriad of dangers, including addiction, health issues, and potential legal repercussions.”
In response to the incident, the department has deployed social workers to initiate a comprehensive investigation.
“Our primary objective is to identify the individuals involved, understand the context of the situation, and implement appropriate interventions to protect the children affected,” Fanta added.
The department is also urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward, emphasising that reports can be made anonymously to ensure the safety of the whistle-blowers.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe stated, “The SAPS has become aware of a video circulating in which young children are drinking alcohol. This matter is being investigated, and an operation to trace these children’s parents and guardians is underway.”
This proactive approach by law enforcement reflects a growing sensitivity to issues related to child safety and well-being in South Africa.
Meanwhile, civil society organisations and child protection advocates have condemned the incident, with mounting concerns over child safety and alcohol abuse. Non-profit organisationt World Changers has labelled the events depicted in the video as deeply troubling, statinghat it reflects a broader societal failure to acknowledge the dangers of alcohol consumption.
Luca Mahlakgane, a representative from World Changers, highlighted the potential long-term implications, saying, “When I first saw that video, I realised that as a nation, we often fail to recognise alcohol as a dangerous and addictive substance. Over 90% of those kids will carry this behaviour to schools and influence more children.”
Mahlakgane continued, “Our society is so damaged already by alcohol, and it is sad to see adults passing on the damage to their children. That incident is not isolated; many families are doing the same thing, misguidedly believing that introducing alcohol to their children is a better alternative than letting them experiment elsewhere.”
The uproar surrounding the video serves as a jarring reminder of the responsibilities that adults bear in safeguarding the well-being of children and the potential repercussions of normalising harmful behaviours.
As investigations continue, it is essential that communities unite to protect their youth and foster environments that advocate for healthy choices and positive development.
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