No DNA Evidence Linking Suspects in Cwecwe: In a significant update to the Cwecwe, Bergview College child rape case, Police Minister Senzo Mchunu has revealed that no foreign DNA was detected in tests conducted on the seven-year-old victim. The revelation, made during a media briefing, adds further complexity to an already troubling investigation.
“DNA is critical when matters of this nature are handled right from the beginning,” Mchunu stated. “The DNA testing was done on the victim as per procedure, and the outcome… said no foreign DNA could be found in the victim.”
No DNA Evidence Linking Suspects in Cwecwe, Bergview College child Rape Case Slows Progress
Despite the absence of biological evidence, investigators have identified three persons of interest. DNA comparisons are ongoing, and the South African Police Service (SAPS) has deployed senior specialists, including Major-General Mmantsheke Lekhele and two colonels skilled in forensic social work, to bolster efforts.
Minister Mchunu noted, “This is a case without witnesses. It’s a case involving a minor, and it’s a case where DNA is crucial. We wouldn’t be able to do the necessary procedural comparisons.”
Public Outcry and Protests Demand Accountability in Cwecwe Rape Case
The case has sparked national outrage. The hashtag #JusticeForCwecwe has gained momentum, with protesters across South Africa demanding justice for the young victim. In response, Eastern Cape Education MEC Fundile Gade attempted to deregister Bergview College, citing the school’s mishandling of the incident. However, legal intervention led to the withdrawal of the deregistration to avoid displacing approximately 600 learners.
School Principal Complies as Investigation Intensifies
Initially hesitant, the school’s principal has now provided a DNA sample. He is being represented by AfriForum’s Advocate Gerrie Nel, who claims that the assault more likely occurred at a community event rather than on school premises.
Nel emphasized that the medical timeline and injuries contradict the claim that the rape happened at the school. “The child would not have been able to go to school and attend a party the following day if she had suffered such injuries,” he said. According to the mother, the child was discovered with blood-stained pants and possibly drugged.
Timeline and Evidence Under Scrutiny
Nel referenced statements from three female teachers and a caretaker who were present at the school on the day of the alleged incident. He insists that the investigating officer found no contact between the principal and the child on that day.
“If our client was identified as the suspect, failure by SAPS to act would be inexcusable. But SAPS excluded Pieterse, and we must accept that conclusion,” Nel said.
He also pointed to a productive meeting on December 10, 2024, where Pieterse and the school’s board cooperated with police officials to support the investigation.
Activist Group Rejects Gerrie Nel’s Assertions
Community activist Anele Mda, supporting the victim’s family, criticized Nel’s involvement, saying, “Gerrie Nel has no authority in SAPS investigations. His statements are an attempt to derail justice.”
She emphasized that only SAPS can exonerate or implicate suspects, not a legal representative working outside the official framework.
Community Raises Funds as Family Faces Financial Burden
Raymond Mayekisa, a former Matatiele resident now based in Johannesburg, has initiated fundraising efforts to assist the child’s family with escalating medical bills. The child’s mother reportedly considered selling her car due to exhausted medical aid.
Mayekisa expressed frustration with the slow pace of the investigation: “In Matatiele, justice requires power and money. The local police are not handling rape cases with the urgency they deserve.”
Frustration Grows Over Lack of Arrests in Cwecwe Case
With no DNA evidence linking suspects in the Cwecwe, Bergview College child rape case, the community has begun conducting its own investigations. Mayekisa said the school’s resistance to cooperate initially raised red flags among residents.
Government Affirms Commitment to Justice
Minister Mchunu closed the briefing with reassurances that the government remains determined to uncover the truth.
“We are reaching what we consider to be a very sensitive stage,” he said. “We are hopeful that soon, we will conclude the matter and deliver justice.”
