TZANEEN – A 32-year-old teacher accused of raping a 17-year-old learner has been granted R1 000 bail and is expected to return to the Ritavi Magistrate’s Court on November 12.

The teacher appeared in court on Monday, September 21, following his arrest in connection with the alleged rape of the learner in the Ritavi area.

Police outline the allegations

According to Limpopo police, the alleged incident took place on September 2 at about 19:30.

It is alleged that the learner, who resides in one of the villages near Nkowankowa, received a phone call from the teacher asking her to collect stationery on behalf of a friend.

He allegedly told her that he would be waiting for her along the street.

When the learner arrived, the suspect asked her to get into his car, which she did.

Police say that the teacher then drove a short distance before stopping the vehicle along the roadside.

He then got out of the vehicle and moved to the back seat, where the learner was seated, before allegedly raping her inside the vehicle.

How the matter reaches police

The learner did not immediately disclose the alleged incident to her mother, reportedly because she was afraid. Five days later, on September 7, she reported the matter to her school principal.

The matter was subsequently reported to police, and the learner was taken to a local hospital for a medical examination.

Specialist unit takes over

The case was transferred to the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Tzaneen for further investigation.

Provincial commissioner responds

Provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers has condemned the alleged incident and expressed concern over the allegations involving a teacher and learner.

Scheepers said teachers hold a position of trust and responsibility towards learners under their care.

“It is disturbing that a person entrusted with the education and safety of our children could allegedly commit such a heinous act against a learner,” said Scheepers.

“Police in Limpopo will ensure that this case receives the necessary support to ensure a successful prosecution.”

Scheepers also urged victims of sexual offences to report incidents to police without delay. He commended the learner for coming forward and reporting the alleged incident despite the circumstances surrounding the case.

The accused has not been convicted of any offence, and the allegations against him remain before the court.