State to oppose bail in Bloubergstrand child abuse case
Police are seen with one of the two accused of sexually abusing and neglecting their kids
Image: SUPPLIED/SAPS
The Bloubergstrand husband and wife accused of sexually abusing and exploiting their two young daughters will remain behind bars, said National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila.
He said the couple briefly appeared at the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, June 12.
“They are charged with two counts of rape, attempted rape, creating child pornography, grooming, sexual exploitation of children, financially benefiting from child pornography, compelling children to watch them while masturbating, and child abuse,” he said.
He said that the accused have indicated they will apply for bail, but the state will oppose their Schedule 6 bail application.
The case has been postponed until Monday, June 23, he said.
National police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk confirmed that a 47-year-old woman and her 48-year-old husband were arrested following a joint investigation involving the South African Police Service, the Department of Social Development, the FBI, and U.S. Homeland Security.
“They face allegations of sexually abusing their daughters, aged three and eight,” she said in a statement.
She said during the operation, the two girls were rescued and moved to a place of safety, and several electronic devices were seized.
The Table View Community Policing Forum (CPF) expressed its concern over crimes of this nature, saying the community is heartbroken and outraged.
“We wish to express our deep concern following the police statement on the recent arrests involving child sexual abuse material and charges of rape,” said the CPF spokesperson David Harris.
He said the CPF strongly condemns all forms of violence and exploitation against children and commends SAPS for their swift action.
“These crimes are horrific and strike at the heart of community safety. We believe transparency, support for victims, and ongoing community education are essential to prevent further harm and ensure justice is served,” said Mr Harris.
He added that the CPF and police are working together with organisations to promote vigilance, raise awareness about online safety, and encourage the reporting of suspicious behaviour.
“Our priority is to support initiatives that protect vulnerable children and ensure a coordinated response to such devastating crimes,” he said.