VANDERBIJLPARK – This is after the most wanted 48-year-old suspect raped a 13-year-old in Sharpeville on Monday, February 13.
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According to police spokesperson Captain Fikile Funda, at about 18:00 a 13-year-old was from a tuck shop when she was attacked by the suspect, threatened with a knife, raped, and fled the scene.
“The child went home and reported the matter after the incident. The police were called and a manhunt was conducted after which, a 48-year-old suspect was arrested,” he said.
Funda said a suspect identification parade was conducted following the arrest.
“The four graveyard victims were called in and were able to positively identify the suspect. The suspect then appeared at Vanderbijlpark Magistrate court on Thursday and his case was remanded to Monday, February 20 for further investigations,” he said.
Funda said the matter will be transferred to high court.
The Sedibeng District Commander Major General Zodwa Molefe has applauded the efforts displayed by various stakeholders in arresting the suspect in a short space of time, especially at the time when the district is fighting to reduce crimes committed against women and children.
Sedibeng Ster went on an interview spree and here’s what people on the ground had to say:
Nontobeko Sibeko (33) said “I am glad the police worked on this lunatic individual. If they had delayed, this was going to be a serious problem. Applauds to the SAPS”.
Nosiphiwe Nkabinde (28): “I was shocked when I learnt of the news and I am super excited that the suspect has been arrested. Our people who have suffered a great deal”.
Nthabiseng Motloung (46): “People like that suspect deserve nothing either than prison, they just don’t belong to live in the society.”
