On Tuesday, a former teacher from Raslouw Academy in Valhalla, facing serious allegations of child exploitation, was granted bail in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court.
The accused, who cannot be identified until he enters a plea, was released on R10,000 bail despite facing three counts of exposing minors to p0rn0graphy and four counts of s3xual grooming.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has reported that the alleged cr!mes involve several boys aged between 13 and 15.
According to officials, the incidents occurred in August 2024, when the teacher contacted the three victims, sending them nud3 pictures of himself and requesting similar images in return.
Gauteng NPA spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana outlined the severity of the allegations, noting that after one victim sent a picture, the accused initiated a video call, during which he demonstrated s3xual acts.
The situation came to light when one of the boys reported the teacher’s behavior to a school staff member, who then advised the students to bring their phones to school for examination.
Following this, the school informed the victims’ parents, leading to a formal complaint being lodged in August 2024.
The teacher was subsequently arrested at his home on December 13, 2024.
ALSO READ: Sh0ck as 12-year-old gives birth in SA
During the bail hearing, the accused’s legal representation argued for his release, citing his first-time offender status, the dependency of his elderly parents on him, and his need for medical care due to a chronic illness.
However, State prosecutor Chris Maruma opposed the application, emphasizing a previous similar case against the accused from his time as a principal in Randburg, suggesting a pattern of behavior with male victims.
In delivering the ruling, the magistrate expressed uncertainty regarding the strength of the State’s case, as critical information from the accused’s devices remains undisclosed.
He also acknowledged the accused’s health issues, indicating that necessary treatment may not be available in pr!son.
As a result, bail was granted, and the case is scheduled for further investigation on March 27, 2025.