Community rejoices – feared ‘rapist’ captured

A group of vocal community members have braved the rain to applaud the Umhlali SAPS on a job well done.

Residents of Velani Township in Etete gathered outside the police station this morning ahead of the appearance of one of the area’s most-feared men at Umhlali Periodical court.

The man, known only as ‘Desperado’, was arrested by the KwaDukuza SAPS family violence, child protection and sexual offences unit (FCS)  in connection with a rape in Umlazi, Durban on Tuesday.

According to Velani residents he has been terrorising townships in and around KwaDukuza, allegedly forcing other men to rape his victims.

FCS KwaDukuza’s warrant officer Vusi Blose said ‘Desperado’ is suspected of a spate of armed robberies, rapes, compelled rape (the act of forcing someone to rape) and murder.

“We found the man in his house in Umlazi. He is also facing a murder charge, among other crimes, that he allegedly committed in Harding. We have just received information that Port Shepstone SAPS is also looking for him for another rape and murder charge,” said Blose.

Ward councillor Njabulo Mbonambi said the community had come out to show their support.

“We are happy they finally caught this horrible man and we hope the magistrate will do the right thing and put him behind bars along with his co-accused,” said Mbonambi.