Bail for child rape accused

A PHOENIX man has been granted bail of R3 000 after he was arrested earlier this month for allegedly raping his 12-yearold cousin twice.

The 28-year-old, who cannot be named to protect the identity of the child, remained emotionless as the decision was announced by the Verulam Magistrate’s Court on Monday.

The investigating officer, Sergeant Vuyani Mtwana, told the court the first alleged incident took place on New Year’s Eve.

“The accused also (allegedly) raped her on another occasion, while her parents were sleeping, but the complainant was not clear on the date. There is no indication the complainant reported the incident to anyone,” he said. “The discovery was only made after her 15-yearold brother saw messages on her phone and questioned her.”

The phone had been handed over to experts for investigation.

Mtwana did not oppose bail, saying the girl had not voluntarily come forward about the alleged rape, and the accused was not a flight risk.

“We also do not have DNA or any other medical evidence to support the case,” he said. “This is not a strong case.”

In a letter read out to the court by his attorney, Keshlen Naidoo, the accused said he would lose his job if he remained in custody. Bail was granted on condition he stay with his uncle and have no contact with the complainant. His uncle was elated, telling

POST later: “He has the support of his family and he will remain innocent until proven guilty.”

He claimed his nephew had been framed, saying the accused had gone to the girl’s house for a porridge prayer when he was assaulted and later charged with rape.