Emotions ran high in the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court yesterday as the the 29-year-old man accused of raping and impregnating an 11-year-old Boksburg girl was denied bail.

Boksburg Advertiser reports that when Magistrate Sipho Manana ruled the accused will remain in custody, the public gallery erupted in applause.

The court found that the accused failed to prove exceptional circumstances for his release, which is a requirement in light of the seriousness of the offence.

Furthermore, Manana said: “We are dealing with a case that involves a child who alleges she was sexually violated while she was six and 11. I also cannot overemphasise the scourge of gender-based violence against women and children in South Africa.”

Outside court, the mother of the child (who cannot be named to protect the identity of the child) said she is pleased that the accused was denied bail.

“I know that we’re just starting the journey, but I’m happy that he was not granted bail. It’s a victory for the family and community. The court heard our pleas for the child,” she said.

According to the mother, every time she sees the accused in the dock, it reminds her of the first time her daughter told her about the rape.

The matter will resume on Tuesday.

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