Outrage over bail granted to child rape accused

GBV organisations and political parties, including local councillors, are questioning why the 62-year-old man accused of raping his five-year-old great-granddaughter was granted bail of R2 000 a week ago.

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

Letters have been sent to authorities.The man, who may not be identified, made an appearance at the Blue Downs Regional Court on December 30, where he is facing a charge of rape. The Cape Argus understands the charge was provisionally changed to sexual assault, and the police’s FC Van Wyk previously confirmed that a case of rape was under investigation following the man’s arrest.

Last week and this week, GBV organisations and activists opposed the release on bail of the man, handing over a petition. The child’s 44-yearold grandmother earlier told the