The Tonga SAPS has asked community members to help them find a certain man who is believed to be able to help them solve a rape case.

According to a provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, the key witness is a male person in his mid-20s, and can be of great help in the investigation.

This after two pupils, aged 16 and 17, were raped by an armed suspect on their way to school in Mzinti at about 06:30 on September 2.

“The investigation team has now managed to gather information regarding a male person who can be of great assistance in resolving this case. The picture of the person [covered with a mask] has been circulated and if he gets the message, he is urged to immediately contact the police. Anyone who can locate him is requested to contact Detective Sergeant Sam Chauke of the Tonga FCS on 082 303 9710 or 072 611 7022. Community members can also contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, or send information via My SAPS app. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous,” said Mdhluli.

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The acting provincial police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, said the SAPS is working around the clock to ensure that the perpetrator is arrested. “We will not tolerate a situation in which learners become terrified to go to school. As the police, we have intensified our efforts and are working in collaboration with community structures. We will soon make a breakthrough in this matter. We aspire to corner the suspect before he can prey on another victim,” Mkhwanazi said.