The Department of Women, Children and People with Disabilities said on Friday it was concerned about the baby who dehydrated in the Midrand police cells while being held with her mother.
”The department would like to encourage parents and caregivers to obey the rules of the road and not put the lives of children passengers at risk,” the department said in a statement.
Beeld reported that a 23-month-old baby girl became dehydrated in police cells on Thursday after her mother was arrested for speeding.
The mother, who claimed her baby was given Coca-Cola and water by the officers, was apparently held for six hours after being caught doing 122km/h in an 80km/h zone.
The department said parents had an obligation to lead by example and demonstrate to children the importance of obeying the rules.
”The department also encourages the police to be sensitive to the needs of children under the care of a suspect. Efforts should be made to ensure that children receive appropriate care where a parent or caregiver is being incarcerated.”
It said a child’s life should never be put at risk as a result of disregard for the law on the part of a parent. — Sapa