Shadrack Sibiya case: Court hears girls fear for their lives, send suicide texts

The two girls in the rape and sexual grooming case involving embattled top cop Lieutenant General Shadrack Sibiya have constantly been sending texts indicating that either one could commit suicide or that they fear for their lives.

This was heard at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, where Sibiya was continuing his fight to be released on bail.

The claims were made by investigating officer Detective Nokukhanya Ndlovu of the Commission Recommendations Task Team during cross-examination.

Sibiya, the suspended deputy national commissioner, faces five charges, including rape, sexual grooming and human trafficking.

A further charge relating to the unlawful possession of a firearm was also added.

The 59-year-old senior police officer was arrested last week following an investigation by the Commission Recommendations Task Team, which is examining matters arising from the Madlanga Commission.

Allegations against Sibiya

The state alleges that Sibiya raped an 18-year-old woman at a Sandton hotel on 16 May after she was allegedly given alcohol and lost consciousness.

He is also accused of grooming a 16-year-old girl through WhatsApp between July and August, including allegedly possessing and sharing sexually explicit images of her.

The teenager is the daughter of an associate of Sibiya.

The state further alleges that Sibiya trafficked three people for sexual exploitation.

Sibiya has denied the allegations.

Investigator opposes bail

During cross-examination, Ndlovu told the court that Sibiya should not be granted bail as that would not serve the interests of the public and justice.

She also said there was a scourge of women and young women being raped in the country.

Ndlovu further said that even when President Cyril Ramaphosa recently addressed the nation on the scourge of women being killed, he said this was a huge problem in the country.

“This is the crisis in the Republic. He (referring to Ramaphosa) stated that the abuse, the rape, and the killing of women remains a stain on our national conscience and declared that it cannot be allowed to define the nation.”

“He further stated that the burden of ending abuse cannot continue to rest primarily on the shoulders of its victims, noting that women are constantly forced to adjust their daily lives to stay safe.”

She insisted that the state has a strong case against the senior officer.

“Considering the strong case against the applicant and the strong likelihoods highlighted above, I humbly request that in the interest of justice, bail be refused against him.”

Witness protection

Ndlovu also told the court that the complainants are now fearing for their lives.

“In light of what I had placed on my affidavit, is that the girls constantly keep on sending texts of either one (planning to) committing suicide or fearing for their lives.”

“So, even today and yesterday, it’s a constant thing. And this is really worrying. And I thought I should just alert the court about that.”

Magistrate Hleziphi Mkhasibe asked if there was a witness protection order for them.

“Yes, Your Worship, the Witness Protection Program has been engaged.

“However, the school, they are writing their last papers.”

“Therefore, the families have considered ensuring safety for now, up until the Witness Protection Program can embark.”

“As soon as they indicate that they are ready to get to them, once they are done with their exams. Should be in the month of October.”

Meanwhile, the case has been postponed to Friday for the continuation of the bail hearing.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

IOL News