A 27-year-old man from Ga-Phiri Village in Ga-Maja, Limpopo, has been arrested in connection with the kidnapping, robbery and sexual assault of two female nurses at Chuene Clinic on January 10.

According to an article published by Polokwane Review, the man, who is linked to over 10 serious and violent crimes, was arrested at his home yesterday following a meticulous investigation by the provincial tracking team, provincial investigations unit, Lebowakgomo detectives, Westenburg detectives and the Modimolle LCRC.

The suspect allegedly entered the clinic’s guard room and tied up two guards. He then instructed another guard, a female, to lead him to the clinic where he allegedly searched two nurses’ handbags and robbed them of their cellphones at gunpoint.

He then took the nurses to nearby bushes where he allegedly sexually assaulted them before fleeing the scene.

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe announced the arrest during a media briefing at Ga-Chuene Clinic in Thokgwaneng earlier today.

She was joined by the premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, other stakeholders and local government officials.

Hadebe said a 9mm pistol, reportedly stolen in a house robbery involving a female police officer attached to the Lebowakgomo Police Station, was recovered during the arrest.

“The suspect is also linked to several other serious crimes, including a business robbery at Thokgwaneng Clinic, a house robbery, an attempted murder in Ga-Molepo and various other robberies and sexual assaults.

“In total, the suspect is linked to over 10 serious and violent cases within the Lebowakgomo policing area,” Hadebe said.

Various items such as the stolen firearm, live ammunition, laptops, cellphones, cash and other valuables were recovered during his arrest.

The suspect faces multiple charges and will appear in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court tomorrow.

Hadebe said police will continue investigating and finalising other linked cases.

“We praise the dedicated efforts of all the operational teams involved in this successful arrest and reassure the public that the police will continue to relentlessly pursue criminals to ensure the safety of all residents in Limpopo.

“This should serve as a stern warning to all criminals who undermine the security of our government facilities. We will ensure that the perpetrator faces the full consequences of his actions, as we continue to ensure that victims of gender-based violence receive justice,” she added.