*Charmain Grand (18) who was kidnapped, raped and stabbed several times by her abductor in Bez Valley will possibly be placed in a house of safety. Following her release on the third day of being held captive, Charmain’s alleged kidnapper sent SMSes to her friends, apologising for his actions. He also sent SMSes to his family, threatening to commit suicide. She was abducted and held captive for three days from September 12 to 14.
The man was arrested on September 22 and appeared in court on September 25. The Hillbrow SAPS Cluster communications officer, Constable Thabo Malatji, said the case was postponed for further investigations. The man did not enter a plea during his court appearance.
He was arrested after Charmain’s mother led the SAPS to her daughter’s alleged rapist.
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On the day of his arrest, Charmain’s mother, *Elizabeth, and her her friend met with the suspect’s family who had also sent an SMS of apology to Charmain’s mother.
“They asked to meet me. Initially I did not want to. But when the police could not find him I thought I had to do something,” said Elizabeth, who arranged to meet with the suspect, his uncle and aunt at the Germiston municipal buildings.
She said they reluctantly agreed to meet her and Charmain that evening.
“Charmain agreed to meet with them and we notified the police. Yes, we were scared but the police kept an eye on us from a distance as we were talking to them, ” Elizabeth said.
Charmain said she was scared when she saw him.
“I was shaking when I saw his face. I felt so scared. I am still scared. My worry is what will happen if he gets bail. If not, what will his family do to me? Their child was arrested because of me. What do they think of me?” she asked.
Elizabeth explained that during the talks, the suspect denied any wrongdoing and was getting aggressive.
“While talking to them, I sent Charmain a message, telling her to call the police. She stood up and notified the police officers who arrived and arrested him,” she said.
Elizabeth said the police are looking for a safe house for her daughter.
*Real identities withheld.
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