Arrest made in Limpopo after alleged sexual assault of a teenager

A 24-year-old man has been arrested in Limpopo for the alleged sexual assault of a 17-year-old girl.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said that the incident occurred on July 19 when the victim was on her way home.

"According to the information, a 17-year-old female victim was from a local tuckshop when she met the alleged suspect, who took her by force to his residential place. While on her way, the suspect allegedly pulled out a knife and threatened to stab her if she screamed."

Ledwaba added that after the 24-year-old raped the victim, he then walked her back to her home. It was only when she reached her residence that she found the courage to tell her mother about the horrifying ordeal. 

The victim's mother immediately reported the incident to the Letsitele Police Station, and a case of rape was opened.

"Tzaneen Family Violence Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) were notified, and a successful manhunt was activated, resulting in the apprehension of the alleged suspect," Ledwaba added.

The suspect appeared before the Ritavi Magistrate's Court on July 21, where the matter was postponed to July 29 for a formal bail application.

In a separate incident in Bloemfontein, police in Parkweg have called on the public for assistance following a serious robbery and stabbing on July 20. The 21-year-old victim was attacked by two unknown suspects near the Stadium Swimming Pool.

The suspects struck him on the head with a blunt object before stabbing him in the abdomen and fleeing with his friend’s Huawei Y7 Pro cellphone.

Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Covane, provincial spokesperson, confirmed that the victim managed to escape and reached out for help at the Parkweg Police Station. He was subsequently rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment, and a case of attempted murder has been registered.

Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could assist in this investigation. Witnesses or anyone with knowledge of the incident are encouraged to contact Lieutenant Colonel Lukas van Zyl at 082 525 2603. Alternatively, tips can be submitted through the MySAPS App or by calling the SAPS Crime Stop number at 08600 10111.

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za