Lotus River residents have forced a suspected rapist out of their community for the safety of their children.
Concerned parents from Oribi Street were up in arms when they learnt a man, believed to be in his 50s, was living in the road and had a pending rape, sexual molestation cases and a protection order against him.
The local street committee met and asked the parents, mostly mothers, to address their concerns and they said they wanted the man out of their area as their kids play freely in the road.
Bishop Paul Phillips from the SA Religious Forum and a member of the street committee says on Tuesday evening, people picketed in the road, demanding the man leave.
“The concern was raised by parents as all the girls in the street are under 14 years old. The accused is originally from Mandela Park in Hout Bay has been staying with family,” says Phillips.
“This man has serious pending matters and in light of everything happening to our children and the dawn of a lockdown upon us, I acted as mediator between the two parties.
“About 100 people marched to the house where this man was staying and said he needs to leave.’
IN: Bishop Paul Phillips
When the protest became volatile, police and Phillips escorted the suspect back to Hout Bay.
“This should send a message to any perpetrator that they're not welcome in our community to hide or live, they're not above the law,” Phillips said.
“If this man is proven innocent, he can by all means return.”
A 31-year-old mother, who requested anonymity, says she has two young girls: “I was part of the protest.
“Our children play late outside and we cannot have someone like that living here.
“I am sorry, I know the person, he is accused of raping and I do not need that around my girls.”
Daily Voice visited the home where the man was staying.
His family told reporters: “It's fine, we do not want to say anything.”
SCENE: Alleged rapist chased out Oribi Avenue
Grassy Park Police Station Commander Colonel Dawood Laing confirmed the incident.
“Members of the Crime Prevention unit were dispatched to the area and we can confirm the man was taken away.
“I cannot confirm any charges against him as this is a Hout Bay case, but he has been removed from the area,” Laing said.