It is important that the community of Bonteheuwel not take the law into their own hands, police say after a 15-year-old was arrested for allegedly raping minors in his mother’s care.
The 15-year-old was arrested last week after the police were alerted to the abuse that had apparently gone on for many years, while the mother acted as a foster parent.
After the arrest hundreds of angry community members wanted to burn the house where the alleged atrocities took place down.
Angus McKenzie, local ward councillor, said he understood the community’s frustrations, but warned against vigilantism.
“I want to commend the Bishop Lavis police for working with my office and the community in effectively dealing with the criminality attached to the case.
“While we commend the community for standing strong and up, I want to warn the minority engaging in possible criminality as well.
“Breaking down a house, burning a house and vandalising private property are against the law, and as we have quickly ensured arrests in this case we will not blink in arresting those wanting to destabilise this situation.”
“Don’t make yourself a criminal through this process. We will continue to update the community and look forward to seeing you all at the next court appearance on 9 April.”
Victims in safe place
He said all the victims are currently at a place of safety by the Social Services Department. “This individual has brought huge pain to innocent children and great shame to our community.”
Sgt Samantha Adonis, police spokesperson, said on Monday 25 March the police was called out by the Child Protection Unit to assist with an arrest at a certain residence in Bonteheuwel Avenue.
“At the house the police were informed of a sexual-assault suspect who was inside and couldn’t come out due to the community involvement.
“Later the 15-year-old suspect was arrested and detained on charges of rape. The investigation is still ongoing.”
