...By Roland Peterson for TDPel Media.
A 37-year-old soccer coach, who stands accused of raping young boys, made an appearance in the Ntuzuma Magistrate’s Court on Monday, May 22.
The alleged incidents took place over a span of six months, and the accused is now facing seven counts of rape.
Alleged Rapes and Court Proceedings:
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, the accused is believed to have committed the rapes between November 2022 and May 2023.
During the court session, the 37-year-old faced seven counts of rape and chose to abandon his bail application.
The case has been postponed to June 26 for further investigation.
Multiple Victims and Additional Cases:
The soccer coach’s alleged victims are reported to be three boys, aged 11 and 15, from a single family, as reported by News24.
However, on Tuesday, it was revealed by eNCA that a fourth victim has come forward and lodged a case against the accused.
Family members are urging other community victims to step forward and file cases against the perpetrator.
Arrest and Identity Protection:
The accused, who is known for running an amateur soccer team in the Ntuzuma township, was apprehended last week and appeared in court on May 16.
To protect the identities of the victims, the soccer coach’s name cannot be disclosed.
Conclusion:
A soccer coach accused of raping boys made his appearance in court, facing multiple charges of rape.
The alleged incidents spanned six months, and the accused chose not to apply for bail during the court session.
Additional victims have come forward, and family members are encouraging other community members to report cases against the accused.
The soccer coach’s identity remains undisclosed to safeguard the identities of the victims involved in the case.