Stellenbosch University rape accused student out on R1 000 bail

AN 18-year-old Stellenbosch University (SU) student charged with two counts of rape, was granted R1 000 bail at the Stellenbosch Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

SU said the student was arrested on Wednesday morning after a 19-year-old female student opened a case with the police. The incident is alleged to have occurred on Tuesday evening at Majuba residence on the Stellenbosch campus.

Sources close to the accused, from Paarl, said his family was “completely broken” by the allegations.

Police spokesperson Captain FC Van Wyk said the circumstances surrounding the incident were being investigated by the Stellenbosch Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit.

“It is alleged that the incident occurred at about 10.30pm on Tuesday at a residence in Victoria Street Stellenbosch,” he said.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila said the accused could not be in contact with the complainant as a condition of bail.

“He is charged with two counts of rape. The court set his bail at R1 000 on condition that he must not be in contact with the complainant.

“His case was postponed until June 29 for further investigation,” Ntabazalila said.

The university said it was “deeply distressed” by the incident.

“In accordance with its established procedures and protocols, the university will suspend the alleged perpetrator from his residence, pending further internal and criminal investigation by law enforcement authorities.

“This is now a criminal matter and the law will now run its course.

“The victim is currently cared for and safe.

“She opened a case against the perpetrator with the SAPS, who accompanied her to the hospital, where she was examined and received the necessary medication, care and counselling.

“The victim has not reported the incident to the SU Equality Unit yet, but she had been provided with information on the various ways that an incident can be reported,“SU said.