Officials refute ‘Ninow drug overdose’ claims
Restaurant rape accused is being treated but is stable
The department of correctional services has denied social media reports that Dros restaurant rape accused Nicholas Ninow had been admitted to hospital due to a drug overdose. Civil rights movement #NotInMyName yesterday alleged that Ninow had been admitted in hospital after injecting himself with drugs.
“The department of correctional services (DCS) has noted with dismay a statement from #NotInMyName organisation, alleging that Ninow overdosed on drugs. Sadly, DCS was never asked nor engaged by the #NotInMyName on the circumstances which may have led to Mr Ninow being treated by medical professionals,” said department spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo. He added: “Ninow reported at our healthcare facility (in person) for medical attention and was examined by DCS healthcare professionals who then recommended that he be transferred to an external medical centre for further examination.”
Nxumalo said Ninow’s health was stable and would be discharged to a correctional services facility. Ninow, 20, has been in custody since September, after his arrest for allegedly raping a seven-yearold-girl in the bathroom of the Silverton Dros restaurant.
He faces charges of rape‚ possession of drugs‚ intimidation and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. His lawyers told the court that he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in January 2013, and that he had undergone treatment for substance abuse as a teenager. But in February, the high court in Pretoria declared him fit to stand trial after a month-long psychiatric evaluation at Weskoppies Psychiatric Hospital. He is expected back in court later this year.