A director of Tariro Model Management who is accused of raping a 14-year-old during a photoshoot, has been granted R10 000 bail under strict conditions.
He appeared at the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday [July 14] on charges of rape, sexual assault, the creation of child pornography and the sexual exploitation of children. The state opposed his bail application.
Bail of R10 000 was granted by Magistrate Ronel Oliver under strict conditions. These include that he may not leave his place of residence without the consent of the investigating officer, he may not attend to his work premises and he may not communicate with any child under the age of 18 years old, either directly or indirectly. He is also not allowed to contact any model affiliated with Tariro Model Management.
The South African Youth Council in the Western Cape has condemned the decision to grant bail.
“We are of the view that courts are meant to protect vulnerable groups in our society, particularly given the onslaught targeted at women and children. We frown upon the decision of the court as we believe it demoralizes victims of rape from speaking out against those ranked higher socially,” the organisation said in a statement.
“Most surprisingly, he was granted bail despite having history of conflict with the law for similar acts. As activists against Gender-Based Violence, we shall not be discouraged and will always support victims. We will continue with our efforts, in partnership with various institutions, to eradicate Gender-Based Violence.”
The suspect was arrested on June 24, 2020 after the Family Violence, Child and Sexual Offences Unit and the Provincial Serial and Electronic Crimes Unit investigated information received in a tip-off.
“Cape Town detectives from the Family Violence, Child and Sexual Offences Unit and the Provincial Serial and Electronic Crimes Unit reacted on information and conducted a search and seizure at a modelling agency in Loop Street, Cape Town, which resulted in the arrest of a 50-year-old man on charges of rape,” Sergeant Noloyiso Rwexana, SAPS spokesperson, said in a statement.
Another alleged victim has since spoken out against the suspect.
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