Hefty cost of SA's failing parole system

Community demands urgent reforms after repeat offender strikes again

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

HE was convicted a predator that raped a young girl almost two decades ago. Then, six months after being released on parole, lured his next victim to his lair and allegedly raped her. If it wasn't for the brave residents of Hanover Park who sounded the alarm, the outcome may have been more tragic.

This case, of a nine-year-old girl, bears eerie similarities to the rape and murders of eight-year-olds Tazne van Wyk and Reagan Gertse both killed by men previously convicted of violent offences. The incident has reignited national outrage over South Africa's parole system, which the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has claimed it has been working to reform for several years.

The 51-year-old man appeared in a packed Wynberg Magistrate's Court yesterday on charges of abduction, human trafficking, rape, and sexual assault. The court heard that the child was heading to Madrassa when the man lured her into his home, sending her to buy milk. Upon her return, he instructed her to put the milk in the kitchen and then proceeded to lock the door.

The court further heard that the man, who cannot be named, made her a sandwich, and after she became drowsy, assaulted her. Neighbours' CCTV footage showed the girl entering his house but never leaving. A search was conducted which ultimately led to finding her curled up in the backyard of the accused.

Acting Western Cape police commissioner, Major General Bongani Maqashalala, confirmed that the man, was originally from Hanover Park and was released back into the community upon being granted parole. He also revealed that the suspect had a previous conviction for raping a 10-year-old, raising further concerns over the decision to allow him back into the same environment.