Following the discovery of a fetus at the Gogga Pump Station in Kimberley, the Sol Plaatje Municipality urges anyone in crisis, especially pregnant women, to seek available support.
According to a statement from the municipality’s communication unit, a plant operator stopped the plant on Saturday afternoon, 18 October, to clean the screen as part of routine maintenance. The screen removes large debris, such as rags and plastics, from wastewater.
As the water flow subsided, the operator discovered the fetus. The matter was immediately reported to the supervisor, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) was notified.
The municipality urges those experiencing a crisis to visit the office of their nearest Department of Social Development or contact the provincial office on 053 874 9100.
The department provides a range of services, including psychosocial support, adoption advice and services, assistance with substance abuse, gender-based violence support, and help for women and children in distress.
If they are unable to assist directly, they will ensure the person is referred to the appropriate service, the municipality stated.
Alternatively, crisis support is available by calling the Gender-Based Violence Command Centre on 0800 428 428, or by sending a “Please Call Me” to 1207867#. Persons with disabilities can send an SMS to 31531 with the message “help”.
