Police have confirmed that a suspect, wanted in connection with the rape and attempted murder of a three-year-old girl in Diepsloot, Gauteng, has been apprehended.

Fourways Review reports that, according to a media statement by the police, the child was under the care of her grandmother while her mother was at work on September 7, when the suspect, known to the family, took her and two other children under the pretence of buying sweets.

“Only two children returned, prompting neighbours to alert the grandmother. A search was carried out, and the three-year-old was found lying in a pool of blood on top of a shack,” reads the statement. She was rushed to a medical facility for treatment.

Police noted that by the time they arrived, the shack had already been destroyed by the community.

FCS detectives, supported by the K9 and Drone units and Crime Intelligence, registered a case of rape and attempted murder and launched a manhunt for the suspect.

Police spokesperson Captain Mavela Masondo confirmed to Fourways Review that the suspect was apprehended by private security officers yesterday. “He will be charged with rape and taken to court in due course, with further charges possible as investigations continue.”

Willie Matjie from WRM VIP Protection Security Services was one of the private officers who apprehended the suspect. “I saw the posts on social media and was really touched. That is why we made an effort, as a security company, to find the suspect.

“We have been in touch with the family. Even though they are traumatised, they are actively getting the help they need for the child and making sure that she gets justice.”

Police are urging anyone with information to contact their nearest station, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111, or share information anonymously via the #MySAPSApp.

This article was amended since first being published.

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