Supersport United player Sibusiso Mahlangu was charged with rape during a brief appearance in the Atteridgeville Magistrate’s Court, west of Pretoria, on Tuesday, South African Broadcasting Corporation news reported. Mahlangu was arrested on New Year’s Day.
In an affidavit, Mahlangu said the complainant called him in the early hours of that morning and that they had spent some time together.
Mahlangu said he was subsequently approached by the complainant’s cousin, who was armed and demanded to know why he had raped her.
The soccer star was released on bail of R1 500.
He is scheduled to appear in court again on February 7.
Another high-profile soccer player, Orlando Pirates star Benedict Vilakazi, is currently on trial for the alleged rape of a 15-year old girl. – Sapa