A 62-year-old man is in custody in connection with the rape of a 37-year-old woman in Makotse village, near Lebowakgomo. The arrest comes more than a year after the January 13, 2025, attack and was made possible by DNA forensic analysis.
Details of the Incident
According to Limpopo police’s Brig Hlulani Mashaba, the woman was walking near Mosepedi school at approximately 11:30 am when she was approached by a man wielding a knife. She was then threatened, assaulted, and raped, and the suspect stole her cellphone.
Brig Mashaba also stated that the suspect allegedly committed a similar rape the day before, on January 12, 2025, in Motantanyane village. Following his initial arrest, the man was granted bail and subsequently moved to the Mokopane policing area, where he found employment as a security guard at a brickyard owned by a family member.
Continued Investigation
Despite being unknown to the victim at the time of the initial incident, further investigation by the Lebowakgomo Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit, including DNA analysis, positively identified the man as the perpetrator. On Wednesday, the FCS unit traced and re-arrested the suspect in the Mokopane area.
The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Thabamoopo magistrate’s court on Friday, facing a charge of rape. Police have indicated that the investigation remains ongoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened on January 12, 2025?
According to Brig Hlulani Mashaba, the suspect allegedly committed a similar rape on January 12, 2025, at Motantanyane village.
Where was the suspect working after being released on bail?
The suspect relocated to the Mokopane policing area and worked as a security guard at a brickyard owned by a family member.
When is the suspect expected to appear in court?
The suspect is expected to appear before the Thabamoopo magistrate’s court on Friday.
How important is forensic evidence in resolving violent crimes?
