A **10-year-old boy from Mamelodi East** is recovering from painful burn injuries after he was allegedly attacked with **boiling water by a 16-year-old neighbour**. The disturbing incident has sparked outrage in the community, with the boy’s family calling for justice and accountability.
The incident took place on **Sunday afternoon in Extension 11, Mamelodi East**, when the young boy and another child were picking peaches from a tree located in a neighbour’s yard. What began as a harmless childhood activity quickly turned into a traumatic experience that left the boy hospitalised.
According to the boy’s mother, she was not at home at the time of the incident. She received a distressing phone call from a neighbour informing her that her son had been injured and urgently needed help. When she arrived at the scene, she found her child in severe pain, crying uncontrollably and suffering from visible burns.
It is alleged that the 16-year-old girl became angry after finding the children picking peaches from the tree. She reportedly fetched a bucket of **hot, freshly boiled water** and poured it onto the boy’s back as he tried to run away. The boy attempted to escape by jumping over a wall but was badly burned during the attack.
Community members intervened and assisted the injured child, helping him out of the yard before taking him to a nearby clinic. Due to the seriousness of the injuries, he was later transferred to **Kalafong Hospital**, where he received further treatment for his burns. His mother said she also had to spend money on additional medical care to ensure her son received proper treatment.
The boy’s mother expressed deep shock and disappointment, stating that there had never been any conflict between the two families. She revealed that instead of apologising directly, someone from the neighbour’s household approached her and offered **R200** to assist with medical costs. She refused the money, insisting that no amount of cash could justify the pain and trauma her son endured.
Police were later alerted, and a case was opened. Authorities confirmed that the **16-year-old suspect was arrested** and charged with **assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm**. Because the suspect is a minor, she was released into the care of her parents and is expected to appear in court.
The incident has raised serious concerns about **violence against children** and the dangers of extreme reactions to minor disputes. Community members have condemned the act, saying it could have ended in tragedy and that children should never be subjected to such cruelty.
The injured boy is now recovering at home under medical supervision, but his family says the emotional scars may take much longer to heal. His mother hopes the case will serve as a warning and prevent similar incidents in the future.
As investigations continue, the family is calling on the justice system to ensure accountability, while urging parents and caregivers to resolve conflicts responsibly and protect the safety of children at all times.
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