MALMESBURY – The court adjourned on Thursday, 20 August, after the teenager (16) from Malmesbury made his second appearance at the magistrate’s court this morning following his assessment by a district surgeon.
Western Cape NPA spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed the district surgeon has recommended that he be referred for mental evaluation. The court endorsed the recommendation of the doctor and the accused has been referred to the Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital for mental evaluation in terms of sections 77(1) and 78(2) of the Criminal Procedure Act. His case has been postponed until 27 August this year for a formal bail application.
The boy was arrested on child exploitation and animal abuse charges following international law enforcement collaboration.
In the meantime, he will be kept in a place of safety until his next court appearance.
Meanwhile, the state has increased the charges against the accused from 11 to 15, which include sexual grooming of a child, compelled sexual assault, sexual exploitation of a child, creation of child pornography, exposure or displaying pornography to a child by image, unlawful and intentional distribution of child pornography, possession of child pornography, data message which incites damage to property or violence, cruelty to animals, and prohibition against filming and distribution of films and photographs depicting sexual violence and violence against children.
ALSO READ: FBI and SAPS arrest Malmesbury teen linked to violent global child exploitation network
The court took a precautionary step of sealing the charge sheet and all orders handed down by the court following a successful application by the state in terms of section 154(3) of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977. The state took this position to protect the rights of the accused who is a minor, the victims, and also his siblings and his family.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) made application following the publication of detailed proceedings of a case that was held in camera. The presiding officer, Mr McKenzie, has warned those attending court not to share proceedings of the court case or any documents that were handed in at court.
The magistrate warned that those who breach the order could be sentenced to three years’ direct imprisonment.
ALSO READ: How Malmesbury teen’s arrest unfolded: police reveal details
