Layla Hadid
The Wynberg Regional Court saw the first appearance of two teachers, one currently employed and one former, on Friday.
A police report was filed on November 18, 2023, leading to the questioning of the suspects. Their initial court appearance took place on November 24, 2023, at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court.
The allegations were brought forward by a former female learner who attended the school between 1998 and 2003.
An anonymous source close to the case disclosed that the incidents occurred between 2000 and 2004, during which both individuals were the woman’s educators.
“The victim had lived with this for many years but had no intention of bringing it to light, because as explained to me she had ‘found methods to cope’ over the years, until her friend took to Facebook in October about his memories of the incidents and how it had been eating at him being silent all this time.”
“She saw the post, and the mixed comments, especially from people saying ‘she must have liked it’, made her relive those memories. She then started counselling, and counselling brought even more memories to the fore which is when she decided to act.”
Despite the School Governing Body releasing a statement on June 28, 2024, no action was initially taken against the teachers, according to the source.
Police spokesperson Anelisiwe Manyana confirmed that the Diep River Police Station has registered cases of rape, which are under further investigation. Manyana added that the two suspects were arrested and have appeared in the Wynberg Regional Court, with the cases postponed until August 21, 2024.
Western Cape Education Department spokesperson Millicent Merton commented on the department’s stance:
“The WCED adopts a zero tolerance approach on any form of sexual abuse. At this stage the victim wishes to proceed with the criminal case only, however subject to the outcome of the criminal case, the WCED will decide on any further action.”
This case highlights ongoing concerns about sexual misconduct in educational institutions and the importance of a supportive environment for victims to come forward. As the legal proceedings continue, the impact on both the educational community and the broader public remains to be seen.
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