Cape Town - A 27-year-old man arrested and charged with the rape of his own grandmother in Casablanca, Strand, has abandoned his bail application.
The alleged incident happened two weeks ago, but was only brought to the police’s attention last week.
The suspect appeared in the Strand Magistrate’s Court yesterday, where the case was postponed to September 2 for further investigation, and he abandoned his bail application.
A community member said a relative found fluids in the private parts of the frail 71-year-old woman while changing her nappy on August 8.
Community Policing Forum (CPF) chairperson, Niklaas Thysen, said they were alerted to the incident last Tuesday.
“We are angered and frustrated about this horrific incident and we will leave no stone unturned.
“We herewith want to sympathise with the closest family of the victim and want to pray and wish her full recovery and get healed soon.
“This tragic and disgusting act of violence against women and children during the month of Women’s Month must be strongly condemned and that no women and children must experience this kind of senseless act by these perpetrators and must face the full might of the law.
“The CPF together with our safety and security stakeholders, are closely following this high profile investigation, investigated by FCS District Metropole and ask the communities of the affected area not to be silent and speak out in any form of women and children abuse in their respective communities.”
Police spokesperson, Joseph Swartbooi, said due to the sensitive nature of the incident, their office will not divulge any details.
“The suspect, a 27-year-old man, was remanded in custody,” said Swartbooi.
Women and child rights advocacy organisation, Ilitha Labantu, said they were both angered and heartbroken by the incident.
Spokesperson, Siyabulela Monakali, said: “The violation of an elderly woman by a family member she should have been able to trust is an egregious breach of human rights and dignity. Violence, in any form, has no place in our society. It is a scourge that undermines the very fabric of our communities and must be eradicated with urgency.
“Incidents of this nature are not isolated but are reflective of a broader and deeply entrenched issue of violence that we must confront collectively. We extend our deepest sympathies to the survivor and her family.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this incredibly difficult time, and we stand ready to offer our full support.”
Swartbooi appealed to anyone who can shed light on the circumstances to call Crime Stop on 0860010111.
mandilakhe.tshwete@inl.co.za