By Mr Lee Tonic.
news@alexreporter.co.za
Johan Coetzee (66) was denied bail at the Komatipoort Magistrate’s Court, Mpumalanga yesterday after he appeared on charges of sexual assault, attempted murder, sexual harassment, and contempt of court. He is the CEO of Mjejane River Lodge. He will return to court on the 06th December 2024 for further bail application.
All the women stay on the premises and hardly go home. The abuse had allegedly been going on for a very long period and the victims were afraid to come out fearing to lose their jobs.
One of the escaped women was asked to perform blow job on the madala until he ejaculated. He allegedly asked what the other woman was wearing by touching her private part. The man is believed to be feared in the area. The horrible story recently surfaced when two of the women escaped and reported the matter to the police.
Lentswe Laka Foundation, who has called for justice and supported the victims of sexual assault, described the news as disturbing. On the statement it released, I said, “As the Nation marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, Lentswe Laka Foundation is deeply disturbed by the recent allegations of sexual assault at Mjejane River Lodge.
“The Lodge’s manager, a white male, is due to appear before the Komatipoort Magistrate’s Court this morning (Yesterday) after being arrested on charges including sexual assault, attempted murder, sexual harassment, and contempt of court.
“The accused allegedly targeted young black female staff members, preying on over 10 women, with only two of the survivors managing to open cases despite reported threats and intimidation.
“We, at Lentswe Laka Foundation, commend these two brave young women for coming forward in the face of unimaginable pressure and fear. It is imperative that their courage is met with solidarity and unwavering support from the community, particularly during this critical period when we reflect on the scourge of gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa.
“As an organisation that advocates for the rights and protection of women and girls, we strongly urge all sectors of society, including Community-Based Organisations (CBOs), political parties, and community leaders in Mpumalanga, to stand in support of the victims.
“We call on them to actively create safe spaces for other survivors to come forward and share their stories without fear of intimidation or reprisal. The allegations in this case are not just isolated incidents of sexual abuse, but are part of a much larger and deeply entrenched pattern of gender-based violence in our country.
“The fact that staff members were reportedly threatened into silence is a direct attack on their rights and dignity, and it underscores the urgent need for immediate intervention by local authorities and community leaders.
“We believe that this case highlights the ongoing exploitation and marginalisation of black women, particularly in workplaces where power imbalances make them vulnerable to abuse. The suspect’s alleged actions reflect a culture of impunity that must be dismantled.”
The foundation has called for the full might of the law to be brought against the accused. It further called on the South African Police Service (SAPS), the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and the judicial system to ensure that “this case is handled with the utmost seriousness and urgency, serving as an example to all perpetrators of GBV”.
The 16 Days of Activism campaign reminds us that gender-based violence remains one of the most pressing challenges in our country. Yet, for many victims—especially black women in rural and workplace environments—the fear of coming forward is intensified by threats, economic vulnerability, and a lack of support systems. We cannot allow this culture of silence to continue. Our fight against GBV must extend beyond symbolic gestures and include tangible, coordinated efforts to protect and empower women.
“We call on all political parties, CBOs, and leaders in the Komatipoort and broader Mpumalanga region to actively engage with this case, ensuring that justice is served and that no other victims are left unheard. The safety and well-being of these survivors depend on the collective efforts of the entire community.
“In addition, we encourage the public to participate in this year’s 16 Days of Activism by supporting survivors of GBV, raising awareness in their communities, and holding institutions accountable. No one should ever be subjected to fear, abuse, or exploitation in any space, be it at work, at home, or in the community.
“As the legal process begins, Lentswe Laka Foundation will monitor the case closely. We stand ready to offer any support needed to the survivors. We urge everyone to unite in ensuring that these women receive justice and that no one else falls victim to such heinous acts at the hands of those in power.
“The survivors’ bravery must be honoured by holding the perpetrator accountable and by creating a safe, supportive environment for all women to live free from fear and violence.”
