Katlehong South SAPS is investigating the case of alleged rape of an 18-year-old girl from Zama Zama informal settlement, Katlehong, by her 42-year-old father.
This follows after the Palm Ridge Magistrate Court withdrew the case due to lack of evidence on January 24.
Police reports suggest that the father allegedly raped his daughter on different occasions since March 21, 2020.
According to Katlehong North SAPS media liaison officer Capt Sivenkosi Mtwa, it is alleged that the suspect also forcefully ordered the child to use contraceptives to prevent pregnancy.
The suspect was arrested on March 21 by the Katlehong Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS).
Although Mtwa said police might add other charges, as it is alleged that he tied her daughter with chains and a padlock to prevent her from walking.
The father has been living with his daughter for the past three years. He was released back to the community after the court withdrew the case.
Kathorus MAIL spoke to the community members at the informal settlement who agreed to speak on conditions they remain anonymous.
Most of the nearby resistants’ said they are not familiar with the family as they are new in the community, they said they heard of the sad event but they cannot confirm anything.
However, we spoke to a mother who expressed her disappointment with the justice system and now fears her children are not safe in the community.
She said she could not confirm the allegations of rape but she mentioned that the father did abuse his daughter.
“I was shocked when I passed by his house and I heard a girl screaming, I asked one of the neighbours why he was beating the child?
“The lady replied saying he found her with a boy on the streets. I was shocked, feeling sorry for the child.”
After engaging with the investigating officer, Mtwa confirmed that the case was withdrawn because there was no evidence.
“According to the witness who is a neighbour, the child was not raped,” said Mtwa.
He said the child has been placed in a place of safety for further observation.
Mtwa explained that usually in cases of rape doctors are assigned to assess the victim while the case goes to court.
Case withdrawn against Katlehong man accused of keeping daughter as a sex slave
