Police clarify comments on DNA samples in Cwecwe rape matter

The police ministry has clarified remarks regarding the rape case of a seven-year-old girl, Cwecwe, denying that a DNA sample was taken from a third person of interest in the case.

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu on Friday reassured people that a “thorough investigation” is “fully under way” into the alleged sexual abuse of Cwecwe that has sparked nationwide protests.

Mchunu confirmed that three persons of interest had been identified, and “further DNA testing is underway”.

DNA samples

However, Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga said DNA samples had been collected from two men and, recently, another person who initially reportedly refused to submit his DNA.

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“The sample taken from the DNA, one from [the first person of interest], two from [the second person of interest], and we definitely want the sample taken from the third person but also taken from anyone else,” said Chikunga.

Clarification

Mchunu’s spokesperson, Kamogelo Mogotsi, said they had taken note of statements on various social media platforms surrounding the ongoing case of the minor in Matatiele and the DNA samples that were collected.

“It is clear that there is a need for further communication from us clarifying some aspects of this case.

“The minister of police never made any statement that the DNA of the third person of interest had been taken but, based on the initial report received, said he was among those suspected. He further said that DNA tests had been conducted without providing any specifics – these tests were in respect of the minor,” Mogotsi said.

Investigations

Mogotsi said the major general deployed to ensure a thorough investigation is working “diligently to ensure that all relevant evidence is carefully examined”.

“The Ministry of Police reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to bring clarity and justice to this matter.

“We urge the public to rely on official statements from the South African Police Service and the ministry and avoid spreading unverified information that may cause confusion or harm,” Mogotsi said.

Death threats

Last week, AfriForum’s Gerrie Nel escalated its correspondence to the Eastern Cape Provincial Police Commissioner following an allegation that another person was a suspect in the rape.

This after the lobby group blamed the death threats on the man on “social media detectives” and alleged shoddy police work.

“The police’s inability to properly investigate this crime, which was committed in October last year, and the reluctance to provide meaningful and accurate feedback has led to the dissemination of false and defamatory claims being made by the public, but now also state officials and politicians,” Nel stated in a recent letter to the Matatiele police station commander.

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