Man rapes, infects niece with STI

A 33-year-old man from Pelandaba West suburb has appeared in court facing allegations of raping his 15-year-old niece and infecting her with a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

The accused, whose name is being withheld to protect the identity of the complainant, was brought before the Western Commonage regional magistrate on a charge of rape. He was remanded in custody until December 5, when his trial is expected to commence.

Prosecutor Ms Christina Manyika told the court that the accused is the complainant's uncle and that they reside together.

"Sometime in 2024, the accused person, his wife, the complainant and two other minor children were sleeping in one room at their place of residence in Pelandaba," Ms Manyika said.

The court heard that during the night, the accused allegedly sneaked into the complainant's blankets. When she woke up and attempted to scream, he reportedly closed her mouth and threatened to kill her before raping her.

It was further alleged that the accused continued to sexually assault the minor on several occasions, each time threatening her with death if she disclosed the abuse.

The matter came to light in September this year when the complainant fell ill and was taken to a doctor, who discovered she had contracted an STI. Upon being questioned by her aunt, the girl disclosed the abuse, leading to a police report and the accused's subsequent arrest.

The case has drawn attention to the vulnerability of minors living in extended family arrangements and the importance of vigilance in protecting children from abuse.