An advocacy group, Women and Men Against Child Abuse, has expressed concerns over a social worker's report submitted in defence of convicted former teacher Iain Wares. The 86-year-old Wares was found guilty of indecently assaulting a former learner at Rondebosch Boys' Preparatory School in 1988. The social worker, Arina Smit, described Wares as a timid, non-aggressive, and anxious man who had been abused by his mother.
Smit's report also stated that Wares was physically frail and unlikely to reoffend, portraying him as a model citizen and a victim of his own paedophilic thoughts. However, Women and Men Against Child Abuse disputes this portrayal, citing a 2019 affidavit in which Wares admitted to acting on his urges. The group claims to be in possession of the affidavit, which appears to contradict Smit's assessment.
The advocacy group also questions Smit's assertion that there was only one victim during Wares' time at Rondebosch Preparatory School. Wares had access to many boys during his years of teaching, and the group suggests that there may be more victims who have not come forward. Smit's report assumes that survivors always disclose and that disclosure leads to criminal charges, which the group argues is not supported by research.
Wares is not only facing charges in South Africa but also extradition to the UK, where authorities allege that he sexually abused at least 65 boys, aged between eight and 13, over an 11-year period. He worked as a mathematics teacher and rugby coach in Edinburgh between 1968 and 1979. An Interpol notice led to his arrest by Cape Town authorities last year, and he was granted bail of R10 000.
Smit's report was part of Wares' defence during his sentencing proceedings, which were attended by a representative of Women and Men Against Child Abuse. The group was present to hear Smit's detailed portrayal of Wares and expressed concerns over the accuracy of her assessment. The group's concerns highlight the complexities of Wares' case and the challenges of determining the truth in cases of alleged child abuse.
Pre-sentencing proceedings for Wares continue on September 23, 2026. The case has sparked debate over the portrayal of Wares as a perpetrator of child abuse and the challenges of bringing perpetrators to justice. Women and Men Against Child Abuse has been vocal in its criticism of Smit's report, arguing that it does not accurately reflect Wares' history of abuse.
The case against Wares highlights the need for continued support and protection for victims of child abuse. As the pre-sentencing proceedings continue, it remains to be seen how the court will weigh the competing portrayals of Wares and determine an appropriate sentence. The advocacy group's concerns over Smit's report add to the complexity of the case, emphasizing the need for a thorough and nuanced approach to justice.
Key points
- Women and Men Against Child Abuse disputes the social worker's portrayal of Iain Wares as a timid, non-aggressive, and anxious man who had been abused by his mother.
- Iain Wares faces extradition to the UK, where authorities allege that he sexually abused at least 65 boys over an 11-year period.
- The advocacy group questions the accuracy of the social worker's report, citing a 2019 affidavit in which Wares admitted to acting on his urges.
