The arrest of the suspect believed to be the man who terrorised communities in and around Mahikeng by raping and killing women with a hammer should bring much relief to communities and give hope that the war against the scourge of violence against women and children is winnable, North West Premier Thandi Modise said in calling for a no bail and harsher sentence on Tuesday.
“Enough is enough. We call for activism to expose perpetrators of sexual violence against women and children. We cannot afford to have our communities living in fear while we are looking away. Working together we can do more to ensure that those who have no regard for the rights of women are removed from society to rot in jail,” said Premier Modise.
The suspect believed to be the infamous hammer-man, as the monster is widely dubbed around Mahikeng, appeared in court yesterday and was reminded in custody. He was arrested last week Friday. About ten women have been attacked, raped and battered with a hammer over the past few months.
Modise congratulated the police on the arrest, adding that she hopes communities in and around Mahikeng will now be able to sleep at nights.
“Although it took a long time to catch the suspect, we congratulate the police for this breakthrough. It shows that the arm of the law is very long. Our people can now go on with their lives knowing that they are safe. We will be following the case very closely as the safety our residents is our priority,” said Modise.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Kea Molale has confirmed that the suspect will appear again in court on 2 December.
Meanwhile, the Premier Modise has expressed confidence the hosting the National launch of the 16 days of activism for no violence against women and children by President Jacob Zuma in the province will heighten activism and contribute towards reducing incidents of rape of women and children which been on the increase in recent months.
The launch event is to be held at the Mmabatho Stadium Parking Lot in Mahikeng as from 9h00 on Sunday.
Enquiries:
Lesiba Moses Kgwele
Spokesperson
Tel: 018 388 3705
Cell: 083 629 1987
Fax: 018 388 3157
E-mail: LKgwele@gmail.com
