'Baby Nikita's' parents abandon bail application

THE parents of four-year-old 'Baby Nikita, who face charges of child abuse and murder, abandoned their bail bid in the Protea Magistrate's Court yesterday.

- SIYABONGA SITHOLE

Baby Nikita was admitted to Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital more than two weeks ago after she was beaten. The incident sent shockwaves through the Eldorado Park community. The child later died from her injuries. According to police, the man was arrested after officers responded to reports of screams coming from a backyard shack. Inside the home, police discovered the young girl with severe head injuries, bruises and a swollen eye. The matter has been postponed to October 9 for further investigation. Speaking outside court, the brother of the accused, who cannot be named to protect the child, said the family is still shaken by what has happened.