A MAN accused of repeatedly raping young girls in Adams Mission chose not to apply for bail when he appeared in the Umbumbulu Magistrate’s Court on August 26.
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The accused had first appeared in court on August 19, shortly after his arrest. Outside the courthouse, picketers from various civic organisations, government departments and the local community gathered in solidarity, demanding that bail be denied.
During the proceedings, the court heard that the accused was arrested after he allegedly accosted two young sisters, aged 12 and 14, as they walked past his home on their way to school. On the day of the incident, a neighbour saw the girls enter his house but did not see them leave. Concerned, the neighbour reported the matter to the school. The school’s security guard then went to the accused’s house and forced his way inside, allegedly catching him in the act of committing the crime. Following his arrest, three more girls came forward with accusations against him.
The accused informed the court that he would not be applying for bail.
Mildred Ngcobo, from the uThingo Crisis Centre, a non-profit organisation advocating for the protection of vulnerable women and children, was among those protesting outside the court.
“We are here to demand justice for the five young learners who have fallen victim to this unspeakable act. These innocent girls are not objects to be used and discarded. They deserve justice, and we must ensure their safety and well-being by standing together and making our voices heard,” said Ngcobo.
The accused was taken back into custody at Westville Prison, where he will remain until his next court appearance on October 1.
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