KNYSNA NEWS - The matter against a Knysna man accused of raping his girlfriend's daughter was withdrawn in the Knysna Magistrates Court on Friday 17 January.

The mother of an eight-year-old girl and her boyfriend were arrested on 3 January after the little girl was allegedly raped by the boyfriend. A case of child neglect against the mother will be heard in February.

Addressing magistrate Leonore Swarts, state prosecutor Eric Mthyobeni said the case manager in the matter said there was no prima facie evidence in the case and that the matter should be withdrawn.

During Swarts' address to the accused, visibly shocked community members could be heard exclaiming that they would not allow him to return to their community and criticised the justice system.

Outside the court building a member of the community, Zodwa Nqonqozi, tearfully told the Knysna-Plett Herald that her spirit had been crushed, "We live in the same area with this man. I am raising a six-year-old and if he just walks, what faith can I have in justice system if anything happens to my daughter?"

Another resident, Nomathamsanqa Siyona, said, "I am shattered. I have been at the forefront of everything trying to get the best for the child. I fear for my life and the life of my children too, including the life of the victim."

Investigating officer Zolani Mpendu was instructed to verify facts during a previous appearance to oppose bail, but the case was withdrawn before he could take to the witness stand.

The couple from Nekkies East were charged with rape and child neglect respectively. The young child's mother was released on warning on 6 January and she is scheduled to appear in court again 17 February for child neglect. 

The names of the suspects cannot be revealed due to the sexual nature of the case. The child spent three days in the Knysna Provincial Hospital receiving medical attention and was released to a shelter thereafter. 

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