The front page article of this mornings Cape Times,“Wheels of justice don’t turn for all in this Boland town,” with allegations of gang rape and assault in the farming community of Rawsonville is shocking and very serious, to say the least. Rape no matter what the circumstances and no matter who is involved, can never be condoned and the law must take its full course.

I have also this morning discussed the matter with Mr Leonard Ramatlakane, Western Cape Minister of Community Safety and I have requested an urgent investigation into all the allegations. I have also requested a report from Agri Wes Cape which I will have in the next day.

Once I have all the information and facts at my disposal I will issue a further statement. At this point in time I want to appeal to all organisations and individuals to refrain from issuing irresponsible statements and allegations until the investigation is completed.

Enquiries:

Alie van Jaarsveld
Spokesperson
Ministry of Agriculture: Western Cape
Tel: 021 483 4930
Fax: 021 483 3890
Cell: 084 604 6701
Email: avjaarsv@pgwc.gov.za