The chairperson of the Strand Community Policing Forum (CPF) has been arrested and charged with multiple sexual offences involving a 15-year-old girl. 

The 56-year-old, whose identity is being withheld, is facing charges including “exposure, or display of causing exposure or display of genital organs to a minor (flashing), two counts of compelled self sexual assault (telling the minor to massage him to get aroused), two counts of crimes injuria (asking the minor to undress herself) and sexual assault (massaging her breast),” said Western Cape National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson, Eric Ntabazalila. 

The alleged offences took place between 3 July and 26 July this year, of which the alleged sexual assault incident occurred on the latter date, said Ntabazalila. Police said the incidents occurred at the accused’s workplace in Gordon’s Bay.  

Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie said the man was arrested on 6 August and appeared in court that same day.  

The Khayelitsha Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit is investigating the case. 

“[The suspect’s] name cannot be revealed due to the nature of the alleged offence. [The] initial case was registered at Strand SAPS and transferred to Gordon’s Bay SAPS as the alleged offence was perpetrated within their precinct,” said Pojie.  

Meanwhile, the Western Cape CPF Board expressed “great regret” over the matter.  

“We want to say that the law must take its course without any fear or favour. We also wish the alleged victim well on her route to recovery,” said CPF Board chairperson, Fransina Lukas. 

This sentiment was shared by the City of Cape Town District CPF Board and Khayelitsha Sub-District CPF Board, who, in a joint statement, said they were deeply concerned by the allegations. The two CPF bodies have expressed their full confidence in the current police investigation into the matter. 

“Internally, the CPF will adhere to the procedures outlined in the CPF Uniformed Constitution. Appropriate action will be taken in line with our governing framework to ensure accountability, integrity, and the protection of the CPF’s role in community safety,” read the statement.

The accused remains in custody pending his bail hearing, which is scheduled for Thursday, 14 August. 

“The State charges him under Schedule 5, which puts the onus to prove that it is in the interest of justice to be released on bail. The State will oppose the bail application,” said Ntabazalila.