NPA
The Johannesburg High Court has issued a warrant of arrest for rape and child pornography accused Gerhard Ackerman.
NPA Regional Spokesperson Phini Mjonondwane says the warrant was issued after he failed to appear in court on Thursday for the continuation of his trial, citing ill-health.
She says the investigation team arrived at his place of residence, only to discover that the accused had moved out and sold all his movable assets.
He had been out on bail of R6000, with strict conditions, but has since disappeared.
Ackerman faces 740 charges ranging from rape to attempted murder, distribution of child pornography and human trafficking of minor children for sexual exploitation.
The trial against him resumed on Monday, 23 January 2023.
Ackerman is alleged to have worked with his co-accused, Acting Judge Paul Kennedy, who has since committed suicide, in an alleged sex ring that lured young boys.
Mjonondwana said the State will work tirelessly to apprehend Ackerman and welcomes any assistance that the public may provide.
