Man Accused of Raping 12-Year-Old Girl Transferred to High Court as Child Struggles at School

A 58-year-old man accused of raping a 12-year-old girl on Easter Friday in Dobsonville, Soweto, has been transferred to the High Court, while the child continues to struggle with the alleged trauma and its impact on her schooling.

Tshepo Ntsimane, who faces a charge of rape, appeared briefly before the Roodepoort Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday, August 12. According to the girl’s father, Tsatsi Molakeng, his daughter has experienced difficulties concentrating and participating in school since the alleged incident.

Molakeng said the family remains deeply concerned about the effect the trauma has had on the child’s emotional wellbeing and education.

The matter has now been transferred to the High Court, where Ntsimane is expected to face the allegations against him.

For the child and her family, the court proceedings are unfolding alongside efforts to support her recovery and help her regain confidence in her everyday life.

The case highlights the lasting impact that alleged sexual violence can have on children, with the consequences potentially affecting their education, emotional wellbeing and relationships long after the alleged incident.

Ntsimane remains in custody and is expected to return to court next Thursday.

The accused remains presumed innocent until proven guilty. The child’s identity has been withheld to protect her privacy.