Central SA
Teenager appeared in court for rape of minor─── ZENANDE MPAME 13:15 Tue, 12 Sep 2023
This incident goes back to June 2023 when the mother became suspicious that her daughter could be pregnant.
An 18-year-old appeared in the Reitz Magistrate’s Court on Monday (11/9) on charges of rape.
The case against him was postponed to Wednesday for a bail application. The suspect was arrested by the police on Saturday (9/9) following the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl.
“The incident goes back to June 2023 when the mother became suspicious that her daughter could be pregnant, which was later confirmed,” said Free State police spokesperson Mmako Mophiring.
“The age of consent for both girls and boys is 16 years. In this case, according to the law, there is an age difference of more than two years and it is seen as statutory rape,” said Director at Child Welfare Bloemfontein & Childline Free State Marietha Johnson.
Despite being unable to recall the specific day, the girl confirmed she had slept with the accused.
