LIMPOPO – A Molemole community came to the rescue of a 15-year-old teen after being raped on Saturday afternoon (October 4).

According to a statement from Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the police were called to the scene and promptly arrested the 37-year-old suspect after the community intervened and detained him.

“Reports indicate that the victim was sent by her grandmother to collect plastic with two friends. On their return, the suspect approached them, grabbed the victim, and attempted to force her to go with him. The victim resisted and initially managed to run, but the suspect pursued her and dragged her into nearby bushes.

“The suspect threatened the victim with a knife, assaulted her with a belt, and then raped her,” says Ledwaba.

He is expected to appear before the Morebeng Magistrate’s Court soon.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe commended the actions of the Botlokwa community members.

“They ensured that the suspect was handed over to the police and that justice could take its course. This is what we call a citizen’s arrest. The community displayed a sense of responsibility and accountability, and this is commendable indeed,” says Hadebe.