Great-grandfather accused of raping five-year-old granted R2 000 bail

A 62-YEAR-OLD man accused of raping his five-year-old great-granddaughter has been granted bail of R2000.

The man, who may not be identified, made an appearance at the Blue Downs Regional Court on Tuesday where he is facing a charge of rape.

Last week and this week, Gender-Based Violence organisations and activists opposed the release on bail of the man by handing over a petition to the state.

The child's 44-year-old grandmother said she was suffering secondary trauma claiming she was allegedly raped by the same man at the age of eight but that relatives never opened up a case against him.

On Tuesday, the court granted the man bail of R2 000 with strict bail conditions.

The matter was postponed to March 3, 2026 for further investigation.

GBV activist, Latifah Jacobs, who handed in a petition opposing the release out on bail, on behalf of the Cape Crisis Committee and Aurorah CAN confirmed that bail had been granted

Earlier police spokesperson, Captain FC Van Wyk confirmed the case explaining that the alarm was raised when the victim was seen walking with difficulty and that the suspect was arrested. "On Sunday, December 12, the police arrested a 62-year-old male for the charges of rape," he explained

"According to the complainant, a five-year-old girl was left with the great-grandfather. When she came back to pick her up she noticed the child was not walking properly.

"The child then informed her that the great-grandfather touched her inappropriately and it was not the first time.

"The suspect appeared in the Blue Downs Magistrates court on a rape charge."

The child's aunt, who spoke on behalf of the victim and the family, informed the Cape Argus that they were deeply distraught by what had transpired and were appealing for justice.

The family said doctors had confirmed alleged penetration after a medical examination was carried out at hospital on the minor.