Community attacks man for raping 4-year-old girl

POLOKWANE – It is alleged the deceased was caught in the act by villagers after they were alerted by toddlers.

According to one of the villagers, who wished to remain anonymous, the suspect threatened the children inside a home in the village.

“The children were seemingly babysitting each other when the man came into the house and threatened them with a knife. Some children saw the opportunity to escape and did so, but the victim was left behind,” he said. The man praised the toddlers whom he said were brave enough to alert the community.

He said after the community went to the house, the man locked the doors, which led to locals breaking windows in an effort to gain entry.

“His tricks to keep us outside did not work. We were too many and there was no way we could leave the poor baby locked inside the house with that monster,” he explained.

Ga-Hlahla headman, Nelson Hlahla said he was saddened by the incident.

He said the four-year-old had been traumatised by the event.

The community had no other option but to kill the suspect, because they cannot stay with a monster. However, I don’t condone mob justice. As the leader of the community I urge villagers to work closely with the police.

Seshego police spokesperson, WO Mothemane Malefo, confirmed a case of rape, and a case of murder have been opened.

“The rape suspect has been killed, but we had to open a case for the magistrate to decide. We are now investigating a murder case and no arrests have been made yet. We will arrest anyone who participated in this murder,” said Malefo.

He urged the community to allow the police to decide the course of law.

“Mob justice seems to be the norm in rural areas and community leaders should address this,” he said.

He explained the police would have a meeting with Ga-Hlahla villagers to educate people about the consequences that come with partaking in mob justice.