Bonteheuwel teenager accused of rape, abandons bail

A teenage boy appeared in the Bishop Lavis Magistrates Court on Tuesday, on a charge of rape. This comes after residents in Bonteheuwel gathered in anger in front of the 15-year-old’s home in Bonteheuwel Avenue, after he was accused of sexual assaulting and raping eight minors.

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Ward councillor Angus McKenzie said that it is alleged that “for many years” the children at the Bonteheuwel Avenue home were sexually assaulted and raped.

‘’Over the last few years it is a believed this abuse has been taking place. I want to take the opportunity to applaud the people of Bonteheuwel who today took to the streets to protest at the home of the alleged suspect. This is warmly welcoming knowing that we are achieving great strides in building a community that stands together, fights together and cares together.’’

‘’I further which to highlight that while we have secured an arrest, I want to appeal for calm from our great people of Bonteheuwel. We have also activated the Social Development department that have placed the children in a place of safety, this is my first priority. This individual has brought huge pain to innocent children and great shame to our community. We will not grow weary in ensuring justice, we have done it before and we will do it again!’’ added McKenzie.

The community in Bonteheuwel Cape Town wanted to break down the house of alleged child rapist circle. The alleged rapes happened over a period of years. The entire household was arrested. Some people say 8 children was involved. Update to follow

As received pic.twitter.com/X2d44TATZo

— Cape Town Community Safety Reports (@MohauKgolokwane) March 25, 2024

The Department of Social Development said support is being given to those affected.

“Due to the seriousness of the matter and those involved being minors, we cannot disclose any further information. The necessary psychosocial support is being provided to the victims.”

Western Cape police confirmed the incident.

“The circumstances surrounding the incident cited in your enquiry are still under investigation. We can confirm that Bishop Lavis police detained a 15-year-old male on a charge of rape on Monday, March 25, 2024,’’ said Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi

In his first appearance, the teenager who cannot be named as he is a minor, opted to abandon his bail application.

He will be remanded in custody and held at the Pollsmoor Prison juvenile section. The case was postponed until 9 April 2024, for further investigations.

“I want to appeal to the Bonteheuwel community to remain calm at this time. We will follow this case at every hearing and we will ensure there is justice for the victims of this horrendous crime. This individual has brought huge pain to innocent children and great shame to our community. We will not grow weary in ensuring justice, we have done it before and we will do it again,’’ concluded Angus Mckenzie, Bonteheuwel ward councillor.

 

Done By: Mitchum George