Police have called for calm following widespread protests across South Africa over the rape of a seven-year-old girl in Matatiele, Eastern Cape. The incident, which occurred in October 2024, has gained national attention after the victim’s mother, a police officer, claimed she received minimal help from law enforcement.

Protests have erupted on the streets and across social media platforms, with citizens rallying under the hashtag #justiceforcwecwe. Many South Africans, including celebrities and ordinary citizens, have offered financial support to the girl’s mother. Donations are being used to secure the best legal representation to ensure justice is achieved.

In response to public outcry, the South African Police Service (SAPS) has deployed additional resources to assist with the investigation and bolster local law enforcement capacity. Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a police spokesperson, reassured the public, stating, “We understand the urgency, and while some cases are quicker to resolve, others are complex and need more time. We assure South Africans that justice will be served.”