Where were relatives when East Rand man abused family: iLIVE

I am in shock after having read the article about the East Rand man holding his family hostage.

However I have a few questions that should probably have been posed to the "family" that the kids and the wife are now in protective custody with.

How did they not know about what was happening this whole time?

Surely if they are family they ought to know that their son/daughter (in-law) or cousin or whatever the relationship is, have children and one would be curious of their wellbeing.

Were they not condoning what was happening if they knew?

Are the kids safe with the family members?