Ongwediva
The family of the boy who became partially blind after a woman allegedly rubbed hot chilli into his right eye following a petty theft have opened a case with the Okahao police.
A vetkoek (fritter) vendor allegedly rubbed hot chilli into the boy’s eye after he reportedly stole a vetkoek worth N$1.
Police spokesperson in Omusati Region, Warrant-Officer Lineekela Shikongo confirmed a case of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm was opened with the police on Saturday.
However, no arrest has yet been made as police investigations into the matter continue.
A relative confirmed the suspect has not been arrested yet as she was seen freely roaming about Okahao on Monday.
The family also plans to open a separate case with the traditional authority possibly for compensation.
The story outraged many people on social network sites, who called for the woman to be tried in court and jailed.
The boy has since been hospitalised at the Oshakati Intermediate Hospital, since last week Thursday, however his condition has not improved.
“He was referred to an eye specialist last week at the Oshakati hospital but his condition has not changed. It seems as if it’s getting worse,” related an uncle.
The uncle said the woman could have opted for a better punishment for the boy because she is aware of his mental instability. The boy is said to be mentally unstable for three years now.
The 19-year-old Johannes Iithete’s right pupil has since turned white while the white part of the eye has since become red.
According to those in the know, Iithete apparently found a woman selling vetkoek at one of the cuca-shops at Omushape where he allegedly grabbed one and attempted to run away.
It is further alleged that when the woman caught Iithete she continuously rubbed chilli in his right eye, which villagers and relatives allege is the cause for his partial blindness.