Action Society has condemned, in the strongest possible terms, the shocking lack of progress in the sexual assault case of a 12-year-old girl, referred to as Camellia to protect her identity. Camellia was allegedly sexually assaulted in April 2023 by a 21-year-old suspect known to the family while visiting Cape Town with her mother. More than two years later, the accused remains untried and at large, despite allegations that this is not his only victim.
After returning to Johannesburg, Camellia disclosed the assault to her mother, who opened a case at Douglasdale SAPS. The case was later transferred to Mfuleni SAPS in Cape Town, and eventually handled by the Kuilsriver Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. Since then, it has been plagued by delays, poor communication, and confusion between SAPS and the National Prosecuting Authority.
A key factor holding the case back is the ongoing medical absence of the original investigating officer, who has been on extended sick leave for months without a permanent replacement being appointed. This highlights a deeper national crisis: many officers in specialised units face overwhelming case loads, long exposure to violence, and serious mental health strain. The result is a policing system under immense pressure, where individual burnout and under-capacity directly compromise justice for victims.
“It is inconceivable that more than two years after this child came forward, her case is still not on the court roll. Every day that this case is delayed exposes other potential victims to risk,” says Juanita du Preez, spokesperson for Action Society.
“The sexual assault of a child is one of the most serious crimes imaginable. Yet, in this case, the system has failed to act with urgency or accountability. This is not justice. It is secondary victimisation.”
Action Society has written to the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape, demanding urgent feedback on the whereabouts of the docket, the status of the case, and the appointment of a competent investigating officer and prosecutor.
The organisation also highlighted allegations that the suspect has a history of similar behaviour toward other girls, none of whom previously laid charges. Action Society has called for these allegations to be formally investigated and, if substantiated, prosecuted as part of a linked pattern of sexual predation.
According to Statistics South Africa’s 2024 report on Crime Against Children, sexual offences remain the most common crimes committed against minors. Rape and sexual assault together account for almost 40% of all crimes reported against children, and nearly two-thirds of all child victims are girls. These crimes often occur at the home of the victim or perpetrator and are often committed by someone known to the child.
“Children like Camellia are failed twice. First by their abuser and then by a justice system that drags its feet,” Du Preez adds. “We will continue to support her family and apply pressure until this case is enrolled, and justice is served.”
Action Society has called for the immediate re-enrolment of the case on the court roll, the assignment of a full-time investigating officer and dedicated prosecutor, and independent oversight by the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure accountability and progress.
“Every delay in a case of this nature undermines justice, erodes public confidence, and leaves victims exposed to further trauma.
Soundbite:
