CAPE TOWN - A well-known Redelinghuys painter accused of sexual assault, rape and grooming of an 11-year-old girl is expected to make his second appearance at the Piketberg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
Western Cape spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority Eric Ntabazalila said the case was rolled over for bail judgement. The State said it opposed bail.
The 79-year-old, who cannot be named at this stage, first appeared on April 20 following his arrest earlier that week on rape charges.
Redelinghuys, a small town about 200km from Cape Town, was left reeling when friends of the 11-year-old girl, who lives with her grandmother, spoke out about the alleged rape which happened on April 13.
According to activist and Rural and Farmworkers Development Organisation executive director Billy Claasen children from the farming community always sought fruits at the man’s house, he would also call them to give them food.
“They became familiar with the old man because he would sometimes call them as they come from disadvantaged homes, and give them food, sweets and money. We are going to ask that bail be denied and that he does not return back into the community. It is heartbreaking and disgusting that vulnerable children are exploited by people who should be protecting them.”
Claasen said during his visit to the child's family and community he was informed this was allegedly not the first time where children spoke about the accused apparently touching them, however this was never followed up.
Cape Times