A former teacher at Rondebosch Boys’ Primary School has been found guilty of indecent assault, nearly 38 years after the abuse case first began. The Wynberg Regional Court delivered the verdict on Monday, March 23, 2026, in a case linked to an incident that allegedly took place in a Cape Town classroom in 1988.

The accused, 86-year-old Iain Wares, was convicted over the assault of a Grade 5 learner. He denied the allegations during the trial and claimed he could not remember the complainant. But the court rejected that version.

Court Backs Survivor’s Testimony

Magistrate Vanessa Miki found that the complainant, identified as Stephen, gave credible and reliable evidence. The court heard that Stephen was inappropriately touched while he was a pupil at the school. In handing down judgment, Miki ruled that the State had proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.

The ruling marks a major moment for Stephen, now 48, who was not in court when judgment was delivered. After the verdict, he described the outcome as overwhelming and said the law had finally had the last word. He also said his case represents many other men still waiting for justice.

Bigger Questions Still Remain

Stephen credited advocacy group Women and Men Against Child Abuse for supporting him through the three-year legal process. The organisation’s director, Miranda Jordan, said the conviction sends a strong message that time does not erase accountability.

The case is also tied to wider investigations beyond South Africa. According to the report, authorities in Scotland are examining more than 100 allegations connected to Wares, while at least 65 complainants are still waiting for legal outcomes. Earlier court decisions also cleared the way for extradition proceedings after the local process is completed.

Sentencing Still to Come

Although the guilty verdict has now been delivered, the South African case is not over yet. Wares is expected back in court in May 2026 for sentencing.