By Zizi Hlungulu
Butterworth - A 52-year-old Eastern Cape man has appeared in court in connection with the rape of a seven-year-old boy.
The boy’s distraught 28-year-old mother, who reported the man to police, said her son is so traumatised by the rape she has to take him for regular sessions with a psychologist.
“I am so angry. I don’t understand how a grown man can do such a thing to a vulnerable child. My son wakes up every night screaming in terror,” said the woman.
She said her son was away from home, and when he returned he didn’t want to be touched when she wanted to bath him.
The woman took him to a doctor the following day, where it was confirmed that he had been raped.
She immediately reported the incident to the Butterworth police, and the 52-year-old was arrested in connection with the rape while drinking at a bar on June 16.
Butterworth police spokesperson Capt Jackson Manatha said police are still investigating the incident.
“The suspect, who can’t be named to protect the minor’s identity, appeared in court on July 19 charged with rape. He will appear in the Willowvale magistrate’s court on July 29,” said Manatha. – SAnews.gov.za
