A 41-year-old man appeared in the Bushbuckridge Magistrate’s Court today, April 11, in relation to the alleged rape of his own niece (19). The matter was postponed to April 21 for a formal bail application. The suspect remains in custody.

The provincial police spokesperson, Selvy Mohlala, said it is alleged that on Saturday April 8 the female victim was at a certain tavern in Bushbuckridge, together with her male friend as well as the suspect and another female person.

ALSO READ: Trial of four men accused of Gardee murder set to begin

“In the early hours of Sunday April 9, the male friend reportedly approached the uncle and requested a lift for the victim as he was going in a different direction. It is said that the uncle and his female companion, as well as the victim, agreed, and they all drove together in the suspect’s vehicle,”

“It is further alleged that on arrival at a certain house the uncle got out of the car with his female companion, leaving behind the victim, only to return to the vehicle alone. It was during this time that the suspect went with her to a certain place and allegedly raped the victim multiple times,” he said.

ALSO READ: Fire breaks out in building in Mbombela

Mohlala said the victim reported the matter to the police the same day. A case was opened and after an investigation was conducted, the suspect was traced and arrested on Monday morning, April 11, hence his court appearance.