Former teacher accused of raping a 13-year-old pupil denied bail

The former teacher who allegedly raped a 13-year-old learner at a primary school outside Polokwane in Limpopo, has been denied bail. The accused, whom SABC News cannot identify to protect the minor, appeared before the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court. He faces charges of rape and sexual grooming of a child.

The accused appeared before the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court to hear judgment on his bail application. The teacher walked in, clad in different clothing to what he wore at his first three appearances. The magistrate, Venus Makhuvele, said that the accused did not provide sufficient exceptional circumstances that would permit his release on bail.

“The applicant in my view has failed to provide the charge honors placed on him in terms on section 60 11a of the procedure act 51 of 1977. Therefore, the bail is dismissed, and since your bail is dismissed accused you are remanded in custody,” Makhuvele says.

Makhuvele has also stated that the accused gave contradictory statements during his bail application.

“There are contradictory statements in this regard. At first, the applicant indicated that he quit his job in order to accommodate the victim and to avoid being at the same school at the school with her. On the other hand, he cited the issue of wanting to pursue his ancestral calling as the reason for his resignation. It is clear that this issue of ancestral calling only came up when he learnt of this investigation against him,” Makhuvele elaborates.

VIDEO | GRAPHIC CONTENT: Limpopo rape accused teacher applies for bail

Residents of Makotopong filled the court gallery to capacity. Community leader, Michael Lekuta, says they welcome the court ruling denying bail to the accused…

“We are very happy with the outcome. It will serve as a precedent for all perpetrators. We are continuing to roll out campaigns in the village, teaching children what is acceptable behavior by adults and to speak up. this is very important for all communities, not just in our area” Lekuta says.

The matter has been postponed to the 20th of June for further investigation and a trial date.

VIDEO | Limpopo teacher in court for rape