A part-time soccer coach and Bible studies teacher who has been arrested on allegations he raped young boys, has opted to abandon his bail.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in KwaZulu-Natal confirmed the accused appeared in the Verulam Magistrate’s Court and opted to abandon bail.
“The accused was remanded in custody and will appear in court on September 17, 2024 for further investigation,” said NPA spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara.
The accused, a 57-year-old man, who cannot be named until he pleads because he face charges of rape, was arrested on August 13, 2024 by Verulam police.
At the time of his arrest, KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said the man was arrested in connection with four counts of rape, following an incident in which the suspect allegedly raped four boys in Waterloo.
“Reports indicate that the suspect was assaulted by the community before the police were called.”
Netshiunda said the suspect was transported to hospital for medical attention and had been under police guard.
Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) said they received reports of the community assaulting the man.
“On arrival, Reaction Officers discovered approximately 100 residents baying for the blood of a man.
“The man was stripped of his pants and underwear. The crowd were threatening to castrate him.”
He said according to their knowledge, the man was employed at a well-known institution and did soccer coaches and Bible studies part-time.
The victims are believed to be between the ages of 10 and 13.
IOL News