Cape Town – The leading independent child rights organisation, Save the Children, has called on communities to report any instances where children are at risk of drug exposure or abuse.
This follows the circulation of a disturbing video in which a 3-year-old child is allegedly encouraged by their mother to consume drugs — an incident that led to the arrest of three suspects in Newclare.
The organisation condemned the incident, emphasising the urgent need for collective action to protect vulnerable children from harm.
It also reiterated that safeguarding children is a shared responsibility, urging citizens to report any suspected cases to the relevant authorities without hesitation.
Outrageous! 3yr old recorded ‘smoking drugs’ allegedly encouraged by mother. Every child deserves a childhood free from violence & fear. Together lets create a world where #EveryChildCanBeAChild. Join us in promoting child protection & positive discipline: https://t.co/SIr0ex72sT
— Save the Children SA (@SaveChildrenSA) July 30, 2025
In response to the viral video on Lotus FM, Margaret Zulu from ‘Save the Children South Africa’ expressed outrage and concern, highlighting the severe violation of the child’s rights and the broader need for strengthened child protection measures.
“Save the Children South Africa is deeply disturbed by this video that has been going viral showing a child allegedly being encouarged by his mother to smoke.
“And this not only a breach of the child’s rights to protection from harm as outlined in the Children’s Act as you know, but also a reminder of the urgent need for stronger community vigilance, support systems for vulnerable families, and also enforcement of child protection laws.
“And no child should be subjected to such harmful and negligent behaviour,” said Margaret Zulu.
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Compiled by Anda Tolibadi
