A SAPS lieutenant-colonel, who is attached to the Kimberley Flying Squad, was granted bail of R5,000 after making a brief appearance in the De Aar Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. He is accused of raping a 15-year-old girl in De Aar on August 26.
SAPS Lieutenant-Colonel Monwabisi Qunta, who is attached to the Kimberley Flying Squad, was granted bail of R5,000 after making a brief appearance in the De Aar Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday.
He is accused of raping a 15-year-old girl in De Aar on August 26.
Community members reported that the SAPS Public Order Police unit travelled from Kimberley to De Aar in the early hours of Wednesday morning, resulting in a strong police presence in the town.
A family member of the complainant stated that while a picket had been scheduled to be held outside the court building, not many supporters arrived.
“It was like a normal day at court.”
Independent Police Investigative Directorate (Ipid) spokesperson Phaladi Shuping said the De Aar police officer was arrested in the morning and later appeared in the De Aar Magistrate’s Court.
“He was released on bail of R5,000,” he added.
National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane stated that the accused was arrested by members of Ipid and brought to the De Aar Magistrate’s Court for a first court appearance on September 18.
“Since the charge is one of rape of a minor of 15 years, a schedule six offence, a formal bail application was heard where all evidence available was placed before the court,” said Senokoatsane.
He added that the court held that “exceptional circumstances existed” when bail of R5,000 was granted.
“Bail conditions include that he may not have any contact with the complainant or her mother. The accused had to hand over his passport and firearm to the investigating officer.”
He said that the matter was postponed until November 12 for further investigation and a decision by the Directorate of Public Prosecutions.
“Unfortunately, we won’t be able to answer on a question regarding the transportation of suspects, as it is the responsibility of the SAPS,” Senokoatsane stated.
