The Moorreesburg community is demanding that bail be denied to two local police officers accused of raping a 27-year-old woman.

The 32- and 34-year-old police officers allegedly offered the woman, who is a seasonal farmworker, a lift in a state vehicle on 8 February 2025. It is believed that she accepted, and shortly after the officers stopped the vehicle at the side of the road and allegedly assaulted her.

Western Cape SAPS spokesperson, Colonel André Traut, confirmed that a case of rape was opened.

“The circumstances of the incident are under investigation by [Independent Police Investigative Directorate],” said Traut.

The accused were arrested on 15 February and first appeared in the Moorreesburg Magistrates Court three days later. Their most recent appearance, on 24 February, saw the case postponed to 5 March for a decision on their bail application.

Activist Billy Claasen, of the Rural and Farmworkers Development Organisation, has been vocal in his calls for justice. He echoed the demands of some locals that the officers not be granted bail. He also raised concerns about alleged preferential treatment, questioning reports that the officers initially avoided arrest by calling in sick.

Meanwhile, disciplinary action has reportedly been instituted against the accused.

“My question now is why can’t anyone take on the two police officers? I have pressed for them to be arrested, as I press in all other cases… I will stand by the victim even if I stand alone. I know where she is and that she is ok,” said Claasen.

A petition demanding that the officers remain behind bars throughout the court proceedings has launched, with more than 70 signatures so far.

“If they are released on bail, it will send the wrong message that police officers can act with impunity and face no consequences…This incident is deeply concerning and highlights the ongoing issue of law enforcement officers violating the very laws they are meant to uphold,” says Claasen, in a statement on the petition.