Hitchhikers assaulted in Mbombela, robbed of their belongings
Mpumalanga police are looking for an unknown man who kidnapped, robbed and raped a couple hiking on the R40 on Monday.
The incident happened around 22:00.
According to police, the couple was offered a lift by a driver of a black Volkswagen Golf sedan. They were destined for Kabokweni, near White River. However, the driver diverted his vehicle to the Sabie-Lydenburg road and stopped at nearby bushes.
READ: WARNING: Hitchhikers targeted by criminals on the N4
He threatened them with a firearm and robbed them of their cell phones, money, bank cards and shoes. He then tied the man to a tree and raped the woman.
Police request anyone with information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect to contact Detective Col Ernest Maoka at 082 318 9843 or the SAPS Crime Stop number,08600 10111.
Also Read: Thugs target hitch-hikers
Lt Gen Mondli Zuma cautioned the community against hitch-hiking. “Hitchhiking is very risky, it is dangerous and can lead to victims being kidnapped, raped and even killed. Accepting lifts from unknown people must come to an end. It is advisable to use public transport and where possible travel early, while there is still light in order to avoid problems” he said.
