Bridgetown Man Victim of Sexual Assault

A BRIDGETOWN man was reportedly forced to his knees and sexually assaulted in a crowded gangetjie, leading to community outrage after the suspect was granted bail and relocated to Delft, an area already struggling with gender-based violence.

As reported by Daily Voice, the victim was walking home on 22 July in Bridgetown when the suspect pinned him down and allegedly demanded oral sex.

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk confirmed: “We can confirm that a sexual assault case has been registered at Athlone SAPS for investigation. This case has been forwarded to the Nyanga Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offenses Unit for further inquiry.”

“A 39-year-old suspect was arrested and appeared in the Wynberg Magistrates Court on 30 July regarding the charge.”

The court learned that the suspect applied for bail and was released on R1 000; however, he is prohibited from entering Bridgetown and cannot contact the victim, his family, or any witnesses.

The court also mandated that, during his release, he must reside at a different address in Delft, with the case postponed to 8 October for further investigation.

The Callas Foundation has expressed concerns about this decision, noting that Delft is known for a high incidence of gender-based violence.

Programme director Phelisa Mashiyi stated: “The assault occurred in a public lane regularly used by residents just after 8pm. When confronted, the alleged perpetrator reportedly confessed to the act, displaying a concerning lack of remorse.”

“The audacity of the attack and his demeanor raise serious concerns about the threat he poses to other children and young people, not only in Bridgetown but now in Delft as well.”

“We cannot accept a system that does not adequately address danger but merely displaces it. Delft already faces significant challenges in terms of child safety, and placing a man accused of rape into this environment undermines community trust and endangers others.”