Khutsong police’s communication officer, Captain Eddie Boboko, says a member of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, Constable Aphiwe Mvubu, arrested the suspects in Khutsong South on Sunday, 28 February.
He was assisted by Khutsong SAPS sector members. The arrest came after the men cornered a 25-year-old woman at about 21:15 on 27 February. She was passing the football field on her way back from her elder sister’s place when one of the suspects approached her and said he had been looking for her. They then dragged her into the open field, where both raped her while threatening her with a knife.
The victim fought back and grabbed the knife, cutting both her hands. After raping her, the suspects left the scene on foot. The police were summoned to the scene and the victim received medical attention. The suspects appeared in Khutsong Magistrates’ Court on charges of rape and assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm. “Rape cases in Khutsong are still a concern and we urge women of all ages to stay away from dark areas or open spaces with long grass.
“They should not walk alone in dark areas or during the night when returning from drinking places or to their homes,” warns Boboko.
The station commander, Colonel Melinda Prinsloo, welcomed the arrests and applauded the members for their swift response, which led to the suspects’ arrest. She continues to urge men to take responsibility and fight the abuse of women and children and gender-based violence. She says those who break the law will be brought to book and face the full might of the law. The police urge the community to continue reporting any suspicious activities through the Crime Stop hotline, 08600 10111 or Khutsong SAPS at 018 783 9022/24.
