A SOMKHELE teenage rape victim has once more been stripped of her dignity as authorities refuse to investigate the matter.
The 16-year-old attended a 21st birthday celebration at a neighbour’s house in April, at which she alleges the party’s host forced all the teenagers to drink alcohol.
After drinking one beer, the teen was escorted back to her brother’s house where she lives with her cousin.
According to her, her five escorts then assaulted and raped her, rendering her unconscious.
She was found unconscious and naked in the early hours of the following morning by her brother who lives and works away from home.
As soon as she regained consciousness, he took his sister to the police station and opened a case.
She has identified her attackers, but police officers have reportedly refused to investigate the case.
According to her brother, she has not returned to school since the ordeal and has tried to commit suicide.
‘She spent some time in hospital, but they were unable to help her, so I took her out and she is now living with me at my place of work,’ said the brother.
Under ‘Operation Sukuma Sakhe’, Mtubatuba Municipality’s Communications Officer Mdu Mahlinza, has undertaken to take the matter further.
Neither SAPS nor the KwaMsane Department of Social Development could be reached for comment.
