Manhunt launched for alleged Mpumalanga child rapist

Police in Mpumalanga have launched a manhunt for a suspect who allegedly “brutally” raped a nine-year-old young girl and killed her mother.

The police say the suspect allegedly also burned a one-bedroom house, in the early hours of Monday morning.

The police’s Colonel Mtsholi Bhembe said in a statement that it was reported that neighbours at Msholozi Village near White River, Mpumalanga, were awakened by the hysteric girl who could barely walk and they saw the house a 28-year-old woman was renting with her daughter on fire.

“They then summoned the Fire and Rescue who came and extinguished the fire, whereafter the burnt body of the woman believed to be the mother of the girl was discovered inside the house.

“A case of rape, arson, and murder was opened for investigation. No arrest has been  made as yet, anyone with information that can assist police in their investigation is urged to contact Captain Pat Banda at 082 449 0334 or the SAPS Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.”

The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Mondli Zuma condemned the callous and cowardly acts of the perpetrator who attacked a defenceless woman and an innocent girl.

“The worst part is that this incident took place during the country’s observation of Child Protection Week. We call upon law-abiding citizens to ensure that this perpetrator is brought to book,” said General Zuma.

(Compiled by Makhosandile Zulu)

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