A man has been arrested in Boksburg, Ekurhuleni, on charges related to the alleged drugging, rape, and distribution of pornographic videos of his wife without her consent. A second suspect was also apprehended in a related operation in Gauteng.
Details of the Arrests
The arrests followed an intelligence report received by the national serial and electronic crime investigations (Seci) team from the National Crime Agency of the British High Commission in Cape Town. The report concerned a South African man believed to be involved in drug-facilitated sexual assault, also known as somnophilia.
Police allege the 34-year-old husband drugged and raped his wife over a five-year period, and then distributed material of the assaults on an exclusive social media channel. According to police, “The victim appeared sedated and in a state of unconsciousness when these serious sexual offences were committed.”
On the same day the first suspect was arrested in Boksburg, a second suspect, age 48, was apprehended in Germiston. Police stated the second suspect had a similar modus operandi and that the two men are known to each other.
Multi-Agency Involvement
The operation involved investigators from the national and provincial Seci team in Gauteng, with support from the US embassy’s department of homeland security investigations. Forensic analysis of the first suspect’s electronic devices revealed images and videos related to drug-facilitated sexual assault, as well as child sexual abuse material.
Police seized electronic devices and two unlicensed firearms from the second suspect.
Pending Charges and Next Steps
Both men are expected to appear before the Boksburg magistrate’s court on Friday facing charges including sexual assault, possession of an unlicensed firearm, possession, distribution, and manufacturing of child sexual abuse material, and contravention of the Cyber Crimes Act for sharing intimate images without the victim’s consent. Investigations and forensic analysis of the suspects’ devices are ongoing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “somnophilia”?
According to the source, somnophilia is also known as “sleep fetish” and refers to drug-facilitated sexual assault.
Where did the initial intelligence come from?
The initial intelligence report came from the National Crime Agency of the British High Commission in Cape Town.
What types of evidence were found?
Forensic analysis revealed images and videos relating to drug-facilitated sexual assault and child sexual abuse material.
What further steps might be taken in this case as the investigation continues?
