Charges dropped against two rape accused

The National Prosecuting Authority says there is not enough evidence to charge two boys, aged 14 and 16, who allegedly drugged and raped a Johannesburg schoolgirl.

"As much as we appreciate the sensitivity of the matter there is just not enough evidence hence the decision not to proceed with the matter at this stage," spokesman Mthunzi Mhaga told Sapa.

"Due to the sensitivity and age of the complainant we cannot discuss the details in respect of the nature of evidence which is in police possession."

Three boys allegedly gave "date rape" drugs to two girls on Thursday and then gang-raped one of them, aged 15, while filming it on their cellphones.

The alleged attack occurred on the premises of Jules High School in Jeppestown, during school hours. The girl only identified two of the boys and they were arrested on Monday.

Both boys are grade 9 pupils. One of them is a pupil at the school where the alleged attack occurred and the other is a pupil at New Nation school near Auckland Park.

The NPA has requested that the police continue to conduct a thorough investigation and obtain more statements.

Once the investigation had been completed the NPA would decide whether to reconsider its decision or not, Mhaga said.