A 46-year-old senior municipal official handed himself over to police on Monday after being accused of raping a 28-year-old woman.

Ladysmith Gazette reports the victim who laid the charges claims that, while employed as an intern at the municipality, was picked up from her home by the man one morning. She alleges that on the way to the office he stopped and raped her.

Accused briefly appears in court

Local police spokesperson Warrant Officer Basheer Khan commented that Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit detectives were tracing the suspect after police received a report of rape. He appeared in the Ladysmith Magistrate’s Court on Monday and was remanded into custody. He will appear back in court next Monday on rape charges.

Alfred Duma Local Municipality has taken a decision to suspend the manager of administration and records management after the rape accusation against him.

Official press release from municipality

“The Alfred Duma Local Municipality has taken note of the grave allegations against the manager: Administration and records management, who is accused of sexually assaulting a former contract employee of the municipality, with the utmost concern.

“The municipality takes these accusations very seriously and vehemently opposes sexual harassment, gender-based violence, and abuse of power in any form. Such behaviour will not be accepted and has no place in the organisation or society.

“It is important to note that the municipality only became aware of the allegations through social media platforms, as the victim had not reported the incident to the municipality.

“In keeping with our dedication to moral leadership and responsibility, the municipal manager has taken a firm stance by serving the implicated official with a notice of intention to suspend him yesterday, in compliance with the municipal disciplinary process.

“The Alfred Duma Local Municipality reiterates its steadfast commitment to women’s empowerment and protection. The municipality is still committed to promoting inclusive, safe, and courteous work environments where all trainees and employees receive equitable and dignified treatment.”

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.