Update
KNYSNA NEWS - The four males accused of raping a minor girl early last year were found not guilty at the Thembalethu Magistrate's Court in George.
On Tuesday 5 June, magistrate Euginia Jacobs ruled that the state had failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt and that there were inconsistencies in the testimonies during the trial.
Sivenathi Nalo, Beni Didishe, Ayanda Jacobs and Beni Kope were all minors during the time of their arrest on 10 February last year. They all abandoned bail subsequent to their arrest and were in custody during the trial.
The mood in the courtroom instantly turned sombre for the 16-year-old girl's family, who were completely shattered, and ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) members who had been to every court appearance.
Commenting on the judgement, ANCWL member Zandile Makhephula said the justice system is failing women. “I don’t understand how any woman could pass such a judgement. After saying the boys admitted to taking turns and repeatedly raped the victim, she still found them innocent. I am gutted.”
Adding to this, Makhephula said she hopes the family will consider appealing.
Read previous articles:
- Minor's gang rape case nearing conclusion
- Postponement in minor's gang rape case
- Minors in rape case now tried as adults
- Mother identifies daughter's 'rapist'
- Rape case moved to George
- Victim testifies in rape case against 4 youths
- 'Rape' victim takes stand in court
- Rape case to conclude this month
- ‘Rape’ case of 4 boys postponed
- Boys in court for rape: Case postponed
- 4 Minors in court for rape
- 4 Rape suspects abandon bail
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