Valhalla Primary School 'sex pest' granted bail

The man, who cannot be named until he has pleaded, was later granted R8 000 bail. 

His alleged victims are between the ages of 10 to 14 and more victims are expected to come forward. 

The teacher also faces charges of common assault and crimen injuria. 

Magistrate Desiré Stigling said it was in the interest of justice to grant him bail as there is no evidence that he is a danger to the victims or that his life would be in danger if released. 

Civil society organisation #NotInMyName and the African National Congress Women's League (ANCWL) handed over a petition on Wednesday, asking that he be denied bail as his safety cannot be guaranteed. 

Stigling said the court relies on facts and not assumptions.

The teacher has been in custody for seven days since he handed himself over to the police. 

The allegations date back to 2018 when he was apparently reported to the school's deputy principal, who allegedly merely reprimanded him. 

Stigling ordered him not to enter Valhalla, contact the victims or their parents and to hand over his passport. 

Gauteng Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi said he is disappointed at the man’s release.

"The outcome today is demoralising, disappointing and devastating. We remain hopeful that the parents and the leadership of the school will be strong because we need to be strong for the school and the learners. We must, however, not be discouraged. We have faith in the law enforcement and justice system." 

He says an independent team has been appointed to investigate whether the school was aware of the situation.

The teacher is currently on precautionary leave with pay, but Lesufi said it were up to him the man would not be paid a salary. 

The teacher will return to court on March 7.