Overview

• The 52-year-old East London educator was arrested at her school and made an initial appearance in the East London Magistrates’ Court, with a bail application set for 23 October.
• She faces charges of trafficking in persons, sexual exploitation and operating an illegal brothel following a Hawks investigation in Quigney.
• Investigators allege she recruited girls from Qumbu, Mthatha and Ngqeleni, housed them at her residence, coerced sex work and charged R250 to R300 per night for accommodation.
• Seven alleged victims aged 16 to 19 have been identified to date, and authorities say further victims could be added as the case develops.
• The Eastern Cape Department of Education condemned the alleged conduct, reported the case to police, plans a SACE referral and warned a conviction would trigger listing on the Sexual Offences Register, while expanding systemwide vetting after three prior dismissals.