eMBALENHLE – The children from Ext 18 were disappointed to hear a rape suspect was granted R20 000 bail by Evander Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 11 February.
Mr Lucky Mlondolozi Mdlazi was arrested in December for the alleged rape of a five-year-old child.
Children picketed at a community meeting on 1 February and urged parents to oppose Mr Mdlazi getting bail.
It is alleged the kid was taken by the man who told her ge was going to buy her chips.
Her family realised she was missing and searched for her.
They were told the child was last seen with the suspect.
The family and the community went to the man’s house, but were denied access.
A relative of the man was later seen with the child in the street.
The community apprehended him and he allegedly confessed the child was raped by his nephew.
They found the suspect and took him to the police station.
Mr Mdlazi pleaded not guilty, but allegedly admitted during cross questioning that he was with the child on the day.
The state opposed bail, arguing the case has induced shock in the community and can cause public unrest.
They also raised safety issues concerning the suspect.
However his lawyer disputed that and said the suspect will move to the Eastern Cape where he would be safe.
The layer said the community did not show any signs of violence and did not assault him when they apprehended him.
A large number of residents who were picketing outside the court and family of the child, were however displeased with the court’s decision.
“I am not happy because this man, who destroyed the future of my child, will be released.
“There is however nothing I can do,” said the mother of the child.
Upset residents went straight to the suspect’s relatives’ house to urge them not to pay Mr Mdlazi’s bail.
They told his uncle that if he pays, it will mean he is commending the actions of his nephew.
The uncle allegedly promised residents the family will not bail Mr Mdlazi out.
Mr Mdlazi will reappear in court on Wednesday, 22 February.
