Two minors raped in Mzinti, suspect still at large
The police urged the public to be vigilant after two teenagers were targeted and raped by an armed suspect on their way to school.
Two pupils, aged 16 and 17, were raped by an armed suspect on their way to school in Mzinti at about 06:30 on Monday, September 2.
The police in Tonga are tracing the suspect and have urged the public to be vigilant, especially learners who walk to and from school.
According to a Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, the two victims had to attend an early class when they encountered the suspect.
“He held them at gunpoint while directing them to a nearby bush and raped both learners. The suspect reportedly threatened to kill them should they report the incident to anyone. On arrival at school, they bravely reported the matter to their teacher,” Mdhluli said.
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The Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit was assigned to investigate this incident. “The investigators already began to probe and a search was conducted around the area. The suspect has not been found yet and police are still on the lookout.”
The acting Mpumalanga police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, said the SAPS is working around the clock to ensure that the perpetrator is arrested.
“We will not tolerate a situation where learners become terrified to go to school. As the police, we have intensified our efforts and are working in collaboration with community structures. We will soon make a breakthrough in this matter. We aspire to corner the suspect before he can prey on another victim,” Mkhwanazi said.
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Mdhluli urged anyone who might have seen anything suspicious or have information that may assist in apprehending the suspect, to call the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or send information via the My SAPS app. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
