gavel thumb100 News24 reports that a 53-year-old deputy principal from a primary school in Bronkhorstspruit, accused of raping a nine-year-old pupil on three occasions during school hours, has been released on bail of R5,000.

The Bronkhorstspruit Magistrate’s Court granted his release on Friday under stringent conditions, which include reporting to the police station twice a week. It is alleged that, between June 2024 and August 2025, the accused raped the child on three occasions during school hours on school premises.   The abuse came to light when the child’s mother noticed her walking abnormally. Upon inquiry, the child revealed the incidents, and the mother subsequently reported the matter to the police.

Widespread community protests swept through the suburb of Riamar Park after the alleged abuse came to light. Parents demanded the teacher’s arrest while calling for the school governing body to be disbanded for its handling of the matter. The accused was arrested on 1 September. The case has been postponed to 24 October 2025, when it will be transferred to the regional court. The deputy principal cannot be named until he has pleaded to the charges.


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