Over 200 Rape Suspects Arrested in Recent Police Operations
The South African Police Service (Saps) has reported the arrest of 201 rape suspects in a crackdown on gender-based violence and femicide. Among those apprehended, 56 were individuals who were already wanted by authorities in various provinces.
Parents Arrested for Abusing Daughters
In a disturbing case in Bloubergstrand, Western Cape, a 48-year-old man and a 47-year-old woman were arrested for sexually abusing their two daughters, aged three and eight. During their arrest, the police confiscated multiple electronic devices as evidence. The couple faces charges including the production of child sexual abuse material, rape, sexual assault, and sexual grooming.
Gang Rape Arrest in Mpumalanga
Another recent arrest involved a 24-year-old suspect in Tonga, Mpumalanga, for his involvement in the gang rape of a 27-year-old woman. Investigations into this case are ongoing.
Notable Convictions:
- Lesley Morwamashobe Mohlala, a serial rapist, was sentenced to 222 years in prison by the Polokwane High Court for multiple counts of rape and aggravated robbery.
- A 42-year-old accused received a life sentence from the East London High Court for raping a 13-year-old girl who became pregnant as a result of the assault.
- A 51-year-old man was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Bloemfontein Regional Court for raping his 10-year-old niece. It was revealed that he was on parole for a previous rape conviction at the time of the offense.
- In Tshiozwi, Limpopo, a 25-year-old accused was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Waterval Regional Court for raping his nine-year-old cousin in 2021.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk emphasized the commitment of Saps to ensuring justice for victims and removing sexual predators from communities.
Source: The Citizen
