CITRUSDAL COMMUNITY OUTRAGED AS BUSINESSMAN FACES SEXUAL ASSAULT CHARGES

'I trusted him with my daughter'

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

A BUSINESSMAN and manager of Astron Energy on the N7 is allegedly sexually groomed and assaulted a young girl. He reportedly took the victim under his wing to assist her with her schoolwork

The victim, aged 12, is from the community of Citrusdal.

The State is set to prove that the businessman, had allegedly gained the trust of his victim while working as management at the Astron Energy garage on the N7.

It is further alleged that he had taken the victim into his care where he lives with his family and his disabled child, and that he apparently showered her with gifts such as clothing and other items.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has since confirmed the charges and that his bail application took place at the Citrusdal Magistrates' Court on Tuesday.

Eric Ntabazalila, Regional Communications Manager for the NPA said: "Please note that the accused's bail application started yesterday (Tuesday) and it is the defence's case. It has been postponed until November 6 for further bail application. The accused is charged with two counts of sexual assault and a count of sexual grooming."