Reed Dance rape suspect in court
Many maidens were seen covering their breasts at this year's Reed Dance after King Goodwill Zwelithini expressed concerns for their safety prior to the event. The Reed Festival was revived by the King a few years ago to promote retention of virginity and create sexual health awareness
Dalena van Jaarsveld
SAPS spokesperson Vusi Mbatha says one of the suspects in the Reed Dance gang rape appeared in the Nongoma magistrates court on Tuesday.
The other suspect is under police supervision in hospital after community members allegedly caught him and his fellow suspect stealing cell phones and took the law into their own hands.
It is believed the 14 year-old victim was somehow separated from her friends late Saturday afternoon when five men raped her at the river where the reeds - symbolic of the girls' virginity - are traditionally cut for the King. This follows concerns for the maidens' safety expressed by King Goodwill Zwelithini prior to this year's dance.
'We know there are those looking to compromise your dignity, but you must know that you are the pride of the Zulu nation and you should be proud that you are upholding Zulu tradition by attending this event,' said the King in his speech at the dance earlier on Saturday afternoon. The Royal household has spoken out against the rape, which has led to sentiments that men should be banned from attending the festival in future.
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