THOHOYANDOU - A 42-year-old man, who volunteered to work as a counselor for abused women and children will appear in the Thohoyandou Magistrate's Court for allegedly raping a 14-year-old girl.

The man, who was also a reservist at the Thohoyandou Police Station, will appear in court on September 27.

It is alleged that the man raped the girl on several occasions, while she came for counseling at the Thohoyandou Trauma Centre.

Hangwi Manavhela of the Thohoyandou Victim Empowerment Programme, said they were disappointed that the man is still seen in a police uniform.

Manavhela said they are also concerned that the police did not act quickly when the case was reported in February this year. "This thing has happened since last year, but immediately when we found out we reported the case to the child protection unit. We even suspended him from our office immediately."

It is alleged that the man raped the child, first on October 09, 2001 at the Trauma Centre at Tshilidzini Hospital, where he was working as a volunteer.

The girl visited the centre after she quarreled with her mother about being involved in a sexual relationship while under age. While busy counselling her, the man allegedly proposed love and kissed her before they proceeded to the kitchen where they made love twice while others were watching TV.

The girl visited the centre again in November on appointment. The man allegedly took her to her home. On the way home they had sex. Her mother found out and immediately informed the centre, whereupon a case was opened on April 28, this year.

The case was referred to the Director of Public Prosecution for a decision on whether to prosecute. Such a decision has since been taken hence the man's appearance in court. He will appear before the Thohoyandou Magistrates' Court on September 27. At this stage, he is out on free bail.