Fury in Slovo after man accused of raping children

Joe Slovo Park residents say they are fed up with crime after a 61-year-old man from the community was arrested for allegedly raping three children.

Community leaders and residents are demanding a solution to crime in the neighbourhood.

Siphesihle Mvuzo, who has lived in the area for 12 years, said the crime got worse every year.

"I got here around 2011 or so. I mean things weren't all that great, but it was never to the level of some of these vicious crimes we have now. As if we don't have enough to worry about as the community. We have the much-reported dumping issue, the sewer issue as well as other socio economic issues. But now the crime is at an all-time high. I would be in favour of a peaceful protest to the police station or wherever our voices can be heard. This issue needs dealing with," he said.

Residents of Joe Slovo’s Siyahalala shanty town say the arrested man sexually assaulted two 4-year-olds and an 8-year-old, but Milnerton police spokeswoman Captain Nopaya Madyibi did not confirm the number and ages of the victims.

"The rape suspect is still in custody in Pollsmoor. He will appear on Thursday 19 October 2023 at Cape Town Magistrate’s Court and after he appears there will be his bail hearing," she said.

Joe Slovo community leader Noxolo Mayeki said the community was planning to hold a protest at the court on Thursday.

"The community is fed up and we want to be there at court. The people want to show their dissatisfaction regarding these crimes in the area. And the community will also be there to oppose any bail application that comes up. This old man that did this to these kids is known by the community... This is a very serious issue and should be treated as such," she said.

Resident Anele Gumbi said: “How can a man feel so comfortable in our society that he can rape three children and think he can get away with it? Clearly something isn't working in our justice system.”