By Kopano Dibakwane
The case against a 26-year-old male suspect who allegedly raped a 2-year-old girl in Nhlazatshe, nearElukwatini, was postponed following his appearance at the Chief Albert Luthuli Magistrate’s Court(formerly Eerstehoek Magistrate’s Court) on Friday 7 February 2025.
According to a statement by Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Lt-Col Jabu Ndubane, the little girl was reportedly lured, by the suspect, into an abandoned old house in Nhlazatshe, near Elukwatini.
Lt-Col Ndubane said the victim’s grandmother was alerted by a passer-by who indicated that the young girl was attacked and bleeding.
“ Fortunately, the said man was reportedly seen earlier with the little girl, heading towards the direction of where the incident allegedly took place. Members of the community then embarked on a manhunt and it was not long before they reportedly found the man nearby, drinking some alcoholic beverages. He was apprehended by members of the public. Police were notified and the suspect was arrested, and charged with rape, ” said Lt-Col Ndubane.
The suspect reportedly sustained some injuries when he allegedly engaged in a scuffle when he was cornered by community members.
The Acting Mpumalanga Provincial Police Commissioner, Major-General(Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, commended members of the public for assisting the police in cornering the suspect. He said the police are highly concerned about incidents of rape whereby children are targeted.
“ Adults should protect the little ones, as children are the future of our country. We hope that justice will be served for the little child,” said General Mkhwanazi.
The suspect was reportedly remanded in custody and he’ll make his next court appearance on 12 February 2025.
