‘Rape’ case of 4 boys postponed

KNYSNA NEWS - Four boys who allegedly raped a 15-year-old in White Location earlier this year appeared in the Knysna Regional Court for the first time today, 5 September after the matter was transferred from the Knysna Magistrate’s Court on August 22.

During their brief appearance, Legal Aid lawyer Bernice Scheel requested that the matter be deferred for further consultation.

State prosecutor Chamelle Bastian and magistrate Eugenie Jacobs were in agreement with Scheel and the matter was postponed to 3 October.

The four boys were all minors when they were arrested on February 10, after they allegedly lured the girl into a house and repeatedly raped her, but one of the boys has since turned 18.

Jacobs said the now 18-year-old no longer needs a guardian/parent to be present during the court proceeding as he can answer for himself.

Protestors during the boy's court appearance.

During a court appearance on February 21, all four abandoned bail. They later did apply for bail, but it was denied.

Members of the ANC Women’s League who were prominent at previous court appearances and organising marches with the community, were also present this time.