Premier condemns horrific attack on Soweto girl

"We cannot allow rape and abuse against women and children to rear its ugly head again in our society. Our thoughts and prayers are with this little girl and her family as she remains in a critical condition," said Mokonyane.

According to media reports, the girl's parents had just left their Braamfischerville home for work when her assailant attacked her just after 0600 on Wednesday. Bleeding profusely and unable to talk properly, she managed to make her way to a neighbour's house to seek help after the attacker left.

Reiterating that rape was a hideous crime that contravenes the basic human rights of the victims, Mokonyane warned that such horrific incidents cannot be allowed to go unchallenged in our communities.

"This calls for each and every one of us to pause and reflect on what has gone wrong in our society. Let us all join hands and say no to rape and abuse of women," said Mokonyane.

The girl is reported to be in a critical condition in hospital.