Three boys charged with rape of mentally challenged girl (12)

LIMPOPO – The police in Lephalale have opened a case of rape after a 12-year-old girl was gang-raped by three minors.

Police spokesperson Brig Motlafela Mojapelo told Review the boys are aged between 11 and 14 years old.

“The mentally disturbed girl was reportedly gang-raped at Steenbokpan (Leseding section) outside Lephalale. The incident took place on October 7,” Mojapelo explained.

He said investigations have been taken over by the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit. “The unit has already engaged with a probation official from the Department of Social Development. The three minor boys will be processed in accordance with the Child Justice Act,” Mojapelo added.

Departmental spokesperson Witness Tiva confirmed the incident and said they have sent social workers to provide psychosocial support to the girl, her family and other affected parties.  “Social workers will also work hand-in-hand with the police and the NPA.”

Social Development MEC Nkakareng Rakgoale has condemned the incident. “We once again urge parents and guardians to always keep a close eye on children and to also ensure their whereabouts at all times. This is a horrific act and shocking to say the least.”

The incident comes in the wake of the arrest of a 21-year-old man for assaulting a minor who attempted to rape a four-year-old girl.

The man reportedly hit a nine-year-old boy with a belt and put him in ‘a big dish with cold water’. He is expected to appear in the Vuwani Magistrate’s Court next week Tuesday (October 19).