Mavimbela said the 32-year-old man, with two other suspects, allegedly threatened a woman (23) with a firearm shortly after she had alighted from a taxi on 9 April.
“They forced her to a spot nearby where they reportedly took turns raping her,” said Mavimbela. It is reported that the victim’s ID book, cash and driver’s licence were stolen during the ordeal.
Mavimbela applauded the local police tracing team and said they worked tirelessly around the clock to ensure that a breakthrough was made.
“These police officers only saw their families last night when they went to their respective homes. They could not stand what they perceived as an attack on the community of Diepsloot. From that point they resumed the manhunt,” said Mavimbela.
He said the police officer’s efforts finally paid off when the suspect was caught napping. Close to 20 memory sticks, cellphones and a branded camera were among the items that were seized when the suspect was caught.
More arrests are expected.
The suspect will be charged with rape, armed robbery and possession of suspected stolen property.
He is expected to appear in the Randburg Magistrates’ Court soon.
The search for the other suspects is ongoing.
