Bekkersdal Police has launched a manhunt for three men wanted in connection with the hijacking and repeated rape of a woman in Simunye late last Friday night, December 9.
Also read: Two women hijacked, kidnapped after visiting club; one victim raped
Also read: Police launch manhunt for rape suspect
Bekkersdal Police spokesperson Sergeant Linkie Lefakane confirmed the crimes were committed at about 22:45 – a day before the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence against Women and Children campaign celebrations officially came to an end.
“The victim was targeted in her driveway as she was about to leave to fill up her vehicle. Her vehicle parked and while closing the gate, the victim was then accosted by the group of suspects who suddenly dragged her into her vehicle and blindfolded her before driving off with her. They then allegedly demanded information about the tracker which she did not provide. It was during this time that they drove onto a gravel road and parked the vehicle before taking turns in raping her,” said Sergeant Lefakane.
She added that the suspects proceeded to drive off with the victim and later ditched her in an open veld on the N12.
This is where she managed to get help from another motorist who took her to the nearest petrol station, where the police were also called.
“The vehicle was later found abandoned in Bekkersdal with no sign of the suspects. It was taken to the vehicle crime investigating unit for further processing. We are making an appeal to the public to always be vigilant and refrain from driving alone at night, check around before you drive off and ask someone to close your gate for you to alleviate these kinds of incidents,” said Sergeant Lefakane.
She added that anyone who can assist with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects may contact the nearest police or Crime stop on 08600 10111.
