A farm in the Elandslaagte area was the scene of a vicious attack on Friday afternoon. The farmer’s wife noticed a man behaving suspiciously on the farm and contacted Elandslaagte police. The farm house is literally 5km from the police station.

However, according to those who first responded, police had still not arrived at the scene. When a SecureSA alarm was activated, K9 Unit officers and paramedics rushed out to the farm. When they got there, they found that the 70-year-old woman had been viciously assaulted. She was rushed to a local hospital.
Police have arrested a suspect believed to be linked to the attack. A case of assault and rape is being investigated.

The Elandslaagte farming community has expressed outrage at the attack. The fact that Elandslaagte police station was called and they did not respond at all has angered local farmers.

Police investigating the attack made a breakthrough on Sunday  when members of the Matiwaneskop community came forward with information about the attacker. He was arrested and positively identified by the victim.

The DA have lashed out at Elandslaagte police’s initial lack of response. HERE

An informed source has cited the initial failure to respond as being the lack of a police vehicle at Elandslaagte police station.
The victim’s name is known to the Ladysmith Gazette, but current legislation prevents the naming of a sexual assault victim.

A Matiwaneskop community member spoke out about the attack. “We know the white farmer and his wife very well. They have always helped us when we needed help. Everyone I know is outraged at what happened.”

When interviewed and asked about Elandslaagte police, the Maitiwaneskop resident repeated over and over again, “Bayangihlanyisa (they make me sick)!”