Woman accused of scalding boy, 4, in court

Prayers and well wishes continue to pour in for a 4-year-old Langa boy who was burned when a woman allegedly poured boiling water over him.

According to the police, the accused, Asanda Makaluza, 22, appeared in the Bishop Lavis Magistrate's Court on Friday July 7, following her arrest the day before.

It's alleged that Ms Makaluza attacked Unako Khala with boiling water on Friday June 24 because he was climbing on her gate.

The case was postponed to Friday July 14, and Ms Makaluza was remanded in custody to Pollsmoor prison.

On Thursday July 6, prior to Ms Makaluza’s arrest, Unako's family, joined by scores of locals and activists from various areas, protested at the Langa police station, complaining of police inaction.

Speaking outside the Langa police station, the boy's aunt, Yonela Mnyombolo, said the family wanted justice for him.

“We were here to open the case and we were told that it was opened and the case was transferred to Bishop Lavis police station. But we were shocked that nothing was happening... We are disappointed with the police. Such a serious case... they took it so lightly."

Later that day, protesters gathered outside Ms Makaluza's home and police had to break up a scuffle between her and the crowd.

Langa Police spokeswoman Captain Nondumiso Paul said a case of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm had been opened at Langa police station and then transferred to the Bishop Lavis Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for further investigation.

Unako appeared to be in good spirits when Vukani visited his home on Thursday July 6, but his scars were clearly visible.