Police investigate a case of attempted rape after 9-year-old escapes

Police detectives are investigating an attempted rape that took place on 15 September in Alexandra at about 12.30pm.

According to the Gauteng police spokesperson, Captain Mavela Masondo, a 16-year-old boy is in hospital under police guard after he was allegedly assaulted by the community who accused him of the attempted rape of a young girl. Masondo said the suspect was rescued by the police and taken to the hospital after he sustained injuries.

A case of attempted rape has been opened for further investigation. “It is reported that four young girls were on their way to the park when they were attacked by the suspect who grabbed the 9-year-old and ran with her towards the bridge next to Jukskei River. He allegedly attempted to take off the girl’s underwear but she managed to escape,” Masondo explained.

Masondo said while the girl was running away from the suspect, she fell on the ground and sustained a minor injury to her right leg. She was treated at the local hospital and released.

“The other three girls reported the matter to nearby construction workers who chased and apprehended the suspect. It is further alleged that community members joined in and assaulted the suspect. The police arrived and their cars were stoned as they were rescuing the suspect from the mob. An ambulance was called and the suspect was taken to a nearby hospital.”

Masondo added that police welcomed the assistance of the community in the fight against crime but condemned any act of mob justice and attacks on police.

The suspect will be appearing in the Alexandra Magistrates’ Court facing a charge of attempted rape. Related article: https://www.citizen.co.za/alex-news/96536/attempted-rape-suspects-await-another-court-date/