Incidents of rape which were reportedly committed throughout Limpopo province has become a serious concern for the police management. Most of the incidents were allegedly committed between 02h00 and 04h00 in the morning.
In a recent incident, a 22 year old member of the SANDF who hails from Cape Town, allegedly raped a 14 year old girl at Malale village in Tshamutumbu. The suspect was arrested this morning at Malale village. It is alleged the suspect, who is based at Madimbo, has been molesting the victim for months. The ordeal came to the attention of the victim`s mother who reported the matter to the police this morning. The suspect is expected to appear before the local Magistrate court on Wednesday.
Other incidents include amongst others the gang rape of a 16 year girl from Maake by three unknown suspects as well the abduction and rape of a 13 year old girl from Villa Nora. It is alleged that the victim was at a local tavern and was kidnapped and repeatedly raped for two days by a known suspect who is on the run. A 17 year old girl from Villa Nora was also raped on her way home around 02h15 yesterday morning from a local tavern by an unknown suspect.
Disturbingly, yesterday a 3 year old girl from Letsitele who was found by the mother while being raped by a neighbour at a nearby river whereas a 7 year old girl from Maake was also raped by her biological father. Both suspects have been arrested.
As the year is drawing to a close and celebrations intensifying to usher in the new year, females are therefore sensitised to be vigilant to avoid being victims of rape.
The following hints should always be adhered to:
- avoid walking alone during the night at secluded places
- don’t accept drinks from strangers as they might be laced with drugs
- avoid frequenting liquor outlets.
- parents are sensitised not to allow minor children (girls) to frequent liquor outlets.
- avoid hitchhiking
- children should avoid gifts from strangers.
- elderly women should not be left alone at homes.
Celebrations for the new year should not be marred by incidents of drunken drinking, rape, assault, culpable homicide or murder.
For enquiries please contact:
Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi
Cell: 082 373 2408
