Dros rape accused referred to Weskoppies
The man accused of raping a 7-year-old girl at the Dros restaurant in Silverton in September has been referred to Weskoppies mental health facility for observation.
Nicholas Ninow appeared in a packed Pretoria Magistrates Court for the third time.
Covering himself his face with a hoodie, the court heard he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2013.
His defense attorney Riaan Du Plessis said Ninow has also been in rehab for substance abuse.
He said the accused started abusing substances from the age of 14.
Ninow will be seen by two psychiatrists and one clinical pyschologist at the facility to determine whether he is fit to stand trial.
ALSO READ: PHOTOS: Man shot in 'church altercation'
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) did not oppose the application.
NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said they are however opposed to the accused being assessed by three mental health professionals.
"We opposed the request by the defense attorney for extra experts to examine the accused. As we felt that its premature at this stage for such an application because we have experienced experts who have compiled reports before providing excellent services at Weskoppies."
She said the NPA expects delays in a case of this nature.
"Unfortunately such delays were expected and we would really like to call for calm. We know that the public has shown immense support to the victim, but unfortunately these delays are not in our control and the laws of this country dictates that judicial officers must entertain such matters in order to subject the accused to a fair trial."
Mjonondwane said they expect more delays as Weskoppies has only indicated it will only be able to accommodate Ninow after 30 days.
Ninow will remain in custody.
He will be back in court on November 28th.