Fort Hare student to face rape charge

A University of Fort Hare student is expected to appear in the Alice Magistrate’s Court today on a charge of raping a fellow student at the weekend.

The incident took place in a car at the Alice campus on Saturday after a night of partying.

Provincial police spokesman Captain Khaya Tonjeni confirmed the arrest.

UFH spokesman Lizo Phiti failed to respond to questions.

However, an internal memo sent to “colleagues” by student developer Sibusiso Ncengwa with a heading Incident relating to student, dated April 23, confirmed that an incident had taken place.

“As it stands, is in custody and will appear in court either today or tomorrow on a rape charge. is also our student,” he said.

Provincial health spokesman Sizwe Kupelo confirmed the woman had been treated at Victoria Hospital. He said she had been given medication to prevent a possible HIV infection.

UFH Alice campus DA Student Organisation chairman Thandikhaya Matokazi, who was among the students who visited the complainant in hospital, called on the university authorities to tighten security on the campus.

“The security system is not strong enough on this campus.

“Management needs to do something about that,” he said.

Said Commission for Gender Equality Javu Baloy: “We believe the complainant will get counseling.”