The family that housed the man who allegedly raped an 11-year-old girl are said to be deeply hurt and disappointed with the accused.

The incident happened in Bethanie, outside Brits, over the weekend.

On Thursday, the accused, a 36-year-old Lesotho national, made his second appearance in the Brits Magistrate’s Court.

His bail application was once again postponed to next year, January for further investigations.

With the accused making his second appearance, he came face to face with the victims’ family and the Bethanie community.

The court heard that the accused has a valid passport, but no permits, thus making him illegal in the country.

He is facing charges of rape, kidnapping and contravening the Immigration Act of South Africa.

The accused was living with his adoptive mother, who took him in more than 10 years ago.

“I’m so hurt, he lived with us for over 10 years. I’m scared, my children are scared he must not get bail.”

The Bethanie Community and family of the 11-year-old rape victim demanded no bail for the perpetrator. Outraged community members appealed to the court to show no mercy and not grant the accused bail.

Gender based violence activist, Palesa Brown says, “He must get a life sentence. This is very painful because we fear what might happen to other children that are outside if he gets bail..”

Some family members says the minor is currently receiving counselling and support.

Her family demand swift justice.

“We are happy that he will stay behind bars even next year when he returns [appears in court again], there must be no bail.”

The accused is expected back in court on the 17th of January next year for the continuation of his bail application and will remain in custody.

Meanwhie, there are growing calls for the education and social development departments to act decisively against rape at educational institutions in the country.

The latest crime statistics show that 190 cases of rape were reported at educational institutions, including at day-care centres and special schools, between July and September this year.

The video below is reporting more on the story: