Alleged Vanderbijlpark ‘cemetery serial rapist’ arrested

A 48-year-old suspect, believed to be the man dubbed the ‘cemetery serial rapist’ has finally been caught after his latest ordeal in which he allegedly raped a minor in Sharpeville on Monday.

According to police spokesperson Captain Fikile Funda, a 13-year-old was on her way home from a tuck shop at about 18:00, when the suspect attacked, threatened her with a knife, raped her, and then fled the scene.

“The child went home and reported the matter after the incident. The police were called and a manhunt was conducted after which the 48-year-old suspect was arrested,” he says.

Funda adds that a suspect identification parade was conducted following the arrest.

“The four graveyard victims were called in and were able to positively identify the suspect. The suspect then appeared before the Vanderbijlpark Magistrate’s Court yesterday and his case was remanded to Monday for further investigations,” he says.

Funda explains the matter will be transferred to high court.

The Sedibeng district commander, Major General Zodwa Molefe, applauded the efforts displayed by various stakeholders in arresting the suspect in a short space of time, especially at the time when the district is fighting to reduce crimes committed against women and children.

Sedibeng Ster spoke to local residents about the matter:

• Nontobeko Sibeko (33): “I am glad the police worked on this lunatic individual. If they had delayed, this was going to be a serious problem. Applauds to the SAPS.”
• Nosiphiwe Nkabinde (28): “I was shocked when I learnt of the news and I am glad the suspect has been arrested. Our people have suffered a great deal.”
• Nthabiseng Motloung (46): “People like that suspect deserve nothing other than [to be sent to] prison. They just don’t belong in the society.”