Limpopo community praised for rescuing teen rape victim and apprehending suspect

Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has commended the bravery of Botlokwa residents who rescued a 15-year-old rape victim and apprehended the suspect before police could arrive.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said officers were called to the scene and swiftly arrested a 37-year-old man in connection with the rape of a 15-year-old girl in Botlokwa Dikgolaneng. The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, October 4, at around 3:30 pm.

He added that the victim had been sent by her grandmother to collect plastic materials with two friends when the suspect confronted them on their way back, forcibly grabbing the girl and attempting to drag her away

“The victim resisted and initially managed to run but the suspect pursued her and dragged her into nearby bushes.”

Ledwaba further stated that the suspect allegedly threatened the victim with a knife and violently beat her with a belt before raping her.

“Community members intervened, rescued the victim, and apprehended the suspect, who is now in police custody and will appear before Morebeng Magistrate’s Court soon,” he added.

The Provincial Commissioner praised the swift and courageous actions of the community, saying their intervention not only saved a young girl from further harm but also ensured that the suspect was brought to justice instead of taking the law into their own hands.

“This is what we call citizen arrest. The community displayed a sense of responsibility and accountability, and this is commendable indeed.” 

Police confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing.

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za