Two rapes in two days in CBD
Report the crime to the Police Service straight away: go to the police station or phone 10111
Two rape cases that took place close to Main Street in the Central Business District (CBD) were reported on separate days.
On Tuesday, June 9, at around 18:45, a lady was walking alone after she was dropped off by a taxi in Main Street.
As she was walking towards Hertzog Street, she heard footsteps from behind and she began to hurry.
The suspect caught up, grabbed her from behind and pushed her to the bushes.
The suspect then took the woman’s belongings, undressed her and proceeded with the act of raping her while covering her face with his jacket.
The other case reported took place on Wednesday, June 10, at around 18:00.
The woman alleged that she was going to visit her sister in the CBD.
A suspect came up to her and covered her with a cloth.
The suspect tied her hands, undressed her and proceeded with the act of raping her.
She alleged to the police that the suspect told her to get tested for HIV as he told her that he is positive.
This incident also took place in the same area as the first one.
Witbank Police Station Communications Officer Captain Eddie Hall said the police suspect that one suspect could have committed both rapes.
He added: “The police have increased patrols in the area, and the suspect(s) might have moved to another area but warns ladies to be vigilant and refrain from walking in the dark.”
There are no new cases reported from that area.
Here are more tips, provided by Captain Hall, on how to avoid or deal with rape situations:
In public:
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Be alert at traffic lights and stop streets
• Walk close to the curb and face the oncoming traffic
• Try and keep to well-lit areas or where there are people
• Do not hitch-hike
• Do not pick up hitch-hikers
• Keep a whistle with you – and blow it if you need help
On a date or party:
• Do not allow anyone to touch you in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable – be firm and clear and say NO!
• Do not leave a party or social event with someone you do not know or have just met – say NO!
• Ask friends for help if someone ignores you when you say NO!
Faced with a rape situation:
• If the attacker is dangerous, cooperate and try to negotiate – Submission is not consent
• Try and remember what the attacker looks like – his age, race, height, hair colour, scars, tattoos, clothes, voice, jewellery
• Scream, yell, blow your whistle or run away if you possibly can
• Do not take a bath or shower or change your clothes after an attack – keep all the evidence so that it can be used by the police for further investigation
• Report the crime to the Police Service straight away: go to the police station or phone 10111.
