Verulam child rape case: Bail application postponed

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The application was meant to get under way today but was postponed.

Proceedings came to a halt when the legal aid attorney, Mondli Mthethwa, told the court that he needed a postponement for three reasons.

The court heard there was a “duplication” of some of the ten charges against the accused and that the man's new address still needed to be verified as he was not able to return to his home in Verulam. 

Mthethwa also told the court the defence wanted to consult with a witness who might testify in court during the bail hearing.

The State has challenged the claim of a duplication of charges - arguing that certain legislation allows the accused to be charged with every individual offence he is alleged to have committed. 

Magistrate Irfaan Khalil said although he was doubtful about granting the postponement based on the reasons brought forward by the defense, he would - so as to fully afford the accused his right to apply for bail.

Meanwhile Verulam residents who were again gathered outside the court today, are still calling for the man to be denied bail

They want him kept behind bars.