Charges against West Village gang-rape accused withdrawn

The NPA has withdrawn charges against 13 men and one minor in the case of the alleged gang-rape that took place in West Village in July.

It seems that the voices of those who protested outside of court have fallen on deaf ears. File photo.

The charges of rape, sexual assault and robbery with aggravating circumstances against 13 men and a minor who were charged in the gang-rape incident in West Village earlier this year have been withdrawn.

A statement from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson for the Gauteng Local Division Phindi Mjonondwane said the NPA decided to withdraw the charges.

The 13 men and one minor were charged for the incident that happened on July 28 where eight women were allegedly gang-raped while filming a music video at a mine dump in Krugersdorp.

“The prosecution will however continue in the Krugersdorp Magistrate’s Court in respect of charges of the Contravention of the Immigration Act,” read the statement.

Mjonondwane’s statement explained that upon consultation with the complainants in the matter, and evidential material currently at the disposal of the NPA it was apparent that there is insufficient evidence to proceed with the prosecution.