Pretoria – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) announced on Thursday that it had “decided to withdraw” the charges of rape, sexual assault, and robbery with aggravating circumstances against all 13 men and a minor, who were all charged for the Krugersdorp gang-rape incident.
The incident, which made international headlines, took place onJuly 28, 2022.
“Eight women were allegedly gang-raped while filming a music video at a mine dump in Krugersdorp,” said Phindi Mjonondwane, NPA regional spokesperson in Gauteng.
“The prosecution will however continue in the Krugersdorp Magistrate's Court in respect of charges relating to the contravention of the Immigration Act.
“Upon consultation with the complainants in the matter, and evidential material currently at the disposal of the NPA, it became apparent that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with the prosecution,” said Mjonondwane.
She said “prosecutorial-guided” investigations would continue in pursuit of justice for all women affected by this “heinous” crime.
Earlier this month, a former police officer was arrested in connection with the Krugersdorp gang-rape.
Police said that some of the allegedly stolen items were found in her possession.
Brigadier Brenda Muridili confirmed that the suspect, a former warrant officer at Krugersdorp police station, had been arrested.
“It was discovered by the investigating officer that the women had in her possession property that belonged to one of the victims of rape.
“She is a former warrant officer who was based at Krugersdorp police station,” Muridili told IOL.
Eight young women were gang-raped in July while apparently filming a music video near abandoned mines in the West Rand of Johannesburg.
The crew of 20 people were also robbed of equipment, money and cellphones.
IOL