A combined effort from local crime-fighting organisations led to the quick apprehension of a young thief who attempted to rape his victim on Monday morning, 7 March.
The woman was walking in the vicinity of Worlds View Close when she was attacked at about 10am on a staircase leading to Seadoone Mall.
According to Community Crime Prevention Organisation (CCPO) committee member, George Snodey, the woman was robbed of her cellphone and money and almost raped by the young perpetrator.
“The message was relayed over the CCPO radio and the area was quickly flooded with CCPO, Blue Security and ET Rapid Response members,” said Snodey.
A description of the thug was given and after a 30-minute search, the man was found by ET Rapid Response South Coast managing member, Tony Lokker in Mopani Road, even though he had removed his shirt, which matched the description given by the victim.
“Our tactical response team went to patrol possible escape routes out of the area and in Camelfoot Drive, we spotted a suspect fitting the description,” said Lokker.
“After interviewing the man, he was searched and a cellphone was found in his possession. The suspect was taken back to the complainant where he was positively identified.
A further search revealed the money he stole from the victim was hidden in his shoe. She also stated that he attempted to rape her.”
The thief was handed over to Toti SAPS and a case of attempted rape and robbery with assault has been opened.
