BREAKING: Councillor arrested for alleged rape of young woman he promised a job

A ward councillor has been arrested over allegations of rape. Picture: File

A ward councillor has been arrested over allegations of rape. Picture: File

Published Oct 14, 2022

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Cape Town - Police have confirmed that a City of Cape Town DA ward councillor has been arrested after he allegedly made sexual advances towards a woman under the pretence of promising her employment.

The councillor may not be identified publicly until he is formally charged.

He has been in office since 2010 and is also a sub-council chairperson.

It is understood that the councillor, who is a DA member, had allegedly promised the woman work opportunities in the safety sector.

The case was opened earlier this week at the Philippi police station where he is being detained.

The alleged victim may also not be identified.

Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg said: “A 56-year-old male was arrested on Friday on a charge of rape and is due to make a court appearance in the Wynberg Magistrate’s court on Monday.”

Twigg previously confirmed that a rape case was being investigated by the Nyanga Family Violence Child Protection Sexual Offences Unit.

“No arrests have been made yet. The investigation into the matter continues.”

Earlier this year, former MEC for Community Safety Albert Fritz was dismissed over allegations of sexual harassment.

Premier Alan Winde made a formal statement about Fritz's dismissal following an independent investigation.

Winde said in his report that they had found sufficient evidence of sexual misconduct and alcohol abuse, allegedly creating an environment where women could be taken advantage of sexually.

Weekend Argus