Strand man accused of raping his grandmother abandons bail

A 27-year-old man has chosen to abandon bail at the Strand Magistrates Court, as he stands accused for the alleged rape of his grandmother.

It is understood that the 71-year-old woman from Strand was attacked and raped by her 27 year-old grandson on 13 August 2024. According to reports, this was not an isolated incident and that the accused had attacked her previously.

Police said that due to the sensitive nature of this incident, it will not divulge any details pertaining to the incident.

The Western Cape Community Policing Forum (CPF) has expressed its outrage following the attack

‘’This abhorrent act strikes at the very heart of our society’s moral fabric. It is a crime that cannot and must not be tolerated,’’ said Justin Kumlehn, Western Cape CPF board member.

The CPF demanded that the police, prosecutors, and the judiciary take immediate and decisive action to ensure that the perpetrator act is held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.

‘’This offender must not be allowed to walk free. We call for swift and just process that ensures the safety and dignity of all women, particularly our elderly, who are too often vulnerable to such atrocities. As a community, we must stand united against this violence. Far too often, crimes against the elderly and children go unreported, allowing perpetrators to continue their vicious actions unchecked.’’

‘’It is time for us to rise and declare ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! We must protect those who cannot protect themselves.’’

Civil rights organisation, Action Society, shared its dismay towards the incident.

“This growing trend of abuse toward the elderly should concern all South Africans; they are the most vulnerable people in our society and any kind of violence toward should never be tolerated under any circumstances,’’ said Kaylynn Palm, Head of Action Society’s Action Centre.

Palm stated that the 15 reported cases cannot be the only cases, and Action Society has reason to believe that these cases are being under-reported. According to the Western Cape Department of Social Development, 15 cases of elder abuse had been reported in the first quarter of 2024/2025.

“We believe there are other senior citizens who are being abused but remain silent because of fear. We are calling on community members to be the eyes and ears and report these incidents,” said Palm.

 

Done by: Mitchum George