Plumstead school teachers face sexual abuse charges

Two teachers at South Peninsula High School in Plumstead appeared in the Wynberg Regional Court on charges linked to rape and assault.

The incidents occurred more than twenty years ago. One of the teachers in question retired last year, while the other one still holds a position at the school.

After five court appearances in Wynberg Magistrates’ Court, the two alleged perpetrators made their first appearance in the Wynberg Regional Court last Friday.

The initial police complaint was registered on 18 November, 2023 and around this time, the suspects were taken in for questioning.

The complaint was laid by a former learner who had attended the school between 1998 and 2003.

IOL reported that the complainant did not intend to ever file a charge. She stated that she had found alternative coping mechanisms for her trauma.

The woman only opened her assault case after a Facebook post by a friend in October reignited painful memories and the trauma of her assault.

The friend shared his recollections of the incident and his years of silence, which had been weighing on him. This prompted her to resume counselling and ultimately led her to file a formal complaint.

On June 28, 2024, the governing body of the school released a statement in which they stated that they were fully aware of the social media allegations against the educators and urged the community to let the legal process take its course and respect the rights of all.

Since the release of the statement, no further action had been taken.

Police spokesperson Anelisiwe Manyana stated that the two suspects were arrested and that the cases were remanded until August 21.

Millicent Merton, spokesperson for the Western Cape Education Department, said that the WCED adopts a zero-tolerance approach on any form of sexual abuse.

As it stands, the victim only intends to proceed with the criminal case, and the WCED will decide on further action subject to its outcome.

Article Courtey of Capetownetc.com