Before the break of dawn today 4 January 2011, members of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga embarked on a carefully orchestrated raid to nab a serial rapist who forced women to have sexual intercourse against their will in eMbalenhle near Secunda.
The suspect was tracked down to his lair through the means of advanced technology that enabled the police to pounce on the sleepy head at 2am. Upon searching the place of residence of the culprit, numerous sim cards were found of which one belongs to a victim that reported a rape case last September.
The impeccably calculated arrest follows at least nine cases on which the accused could be possibly linked to through DNA test. Currently, the age factor of the victims that fell prey to the perpetrator ranges from 12 to 47 years. There might be more women who fell victim as the police are looking into a violent crime that dates back to 2003 with the latest case reported on the 27 December 2010.
In applause, the Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Ntobela said, ''The suspect’s ill actions have come to an end. Police are gearing up to put a formidable evidence that will ensure that the villain is not exempted from punishment through the justice system”. In addition, General Ntobela commended the sterling work by the different police units citing that they have been tireless and diligent in carrying out their duties.
An identity kit drawn up by the police depicted similarities with the suspect in custody. The suspect is due to appear before the Secunda Magistrate Court on Friday, 7 January 2011. Hereafter an identity parade will be held wherein victims will be afforded an opportunity to identify the suspect.
Enquiries:
Captain Leonard F Hlathi
Cell: 082 462 0804
Police apprehend a serial rapist
