The investigation into the rape of a seven-year-old girl, known as Cwecwe, at Bergview College in Matatiele, Eastern Cape, has been elevated to national priority following public outrage and criticism of the school’s response.
PLEASE NOTE: This article contains sensitive content involving the sexual assault of a child and may be distressing to some readers.
Senzo Mchunu is sparing no resource to escalate Cwecwe rape case
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu confirmed that three individuals, including the school principal, are considered suspects. All relevant witness statements have been obtained and DNA tests conducted.
The case is now being reviewed by a senior state prosecutor.
Police have assured the public that specialised child protection units within SAPS are handling the matter, supported by social workers and trauma support services.
Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana from the Eastern Cape SAPS confirmed that the incident was officially reported on 16 October 2024, and that the minor received both medical and psychological care.
Mchunu said authorities are also investigating a separate case involving another minor, Alu, for which a suspect has already been arrested.
He stressed the need for patience while due process is followed to ensure a fair and thorough investigation in both cases.
The outcry over Cwecwe’s case has triggered responses from civil organisations, including Not In My Name International and the MK Youth League.
These groups have criticised the principal’s refusal to cooperate with the investigation and for failing to report the incident to the education department.
The principal has not provided a DNA sample, unlike other staff members who have voluntarily done so.
The Eastern Cape Department of Education announced it would begin the process of deregistering Bergview College, citing the school’s failure to provide a safe environment.
Minister of Education Siviwe Gwarube has been briefed on the case, and provincial officials are working to place affected learners in other schools.
What happened to Cwecwe?
Cwecwe’s mother, Thandekile Mtshizana, says the incident took place on 14 October 2024. Cwecwe returned home late that day and later began complaining of severe pain.
It was only the following morning that her parents realised she was struggling to walk. A doctor confirmed she had been sexually assaulted, both anally and vaginally.
After medical confirmation, the family reported the matter to the police and took Cwecwe to a care centre for further treatment. They then admitted her to a private hospital for continued care.
Cwecwe later told her father that while waiting for her transport, a staff member at the school asked her to sweep a classroom.
She said she suddenly became tired and fell asleep, only waking when the transport driver arrived. Her mother later found out that the regular driver had not been available that day and had sent a replacement.
Despite multiple efforts to get clarity, the school principal allegedly failed to assist and later issued a transfer letter removing Cwecwe from the school without parental consent.
Civil groups have called this act dismissive and harmful, accusing the principal of obstructing justice.
Not In My Name International and the MK Youth League have both demanded accountability and called for a transparent investigation.
The MK Youth League described the principal’s behaviour as a “gross failure of leadership” and insisted all individuals involved be held fully accountable.
Authorities continue their investigation, with law enforcement coordinating closely with the prosecution team to determine the next steps.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact the Childline South Africa helpline at 0800 055 555 or the GBV Command Centre at 0800 428 428. Swisher Post stands firmly against all forms of abuse and urges anyone affected to seek professional help.