FAIRLEIGH – Newcastle police are appealing to the community to help them find a rape suspect.
Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications and Liaison Officer, lizzy Arumugam said a 21-year-old woman was walking to the Newcastle mall and took a short cut through the veld on Friday, January 27.
Read: Cemetery gets that sinking feeling
“While walking through the veld, the victim was accosted by an unidentified man who raped her before fleeing the scene.”
A passer-by heard the commotion and summoned for police help..
Emergency services such as the police, Newcastle 911 policing forum and paramedics were on the scene to treat the victim and to conduct preliminary investigations.
Mrs Arumugam said the victim was taken to hospital for further medical care.
Despite a thorough search of the area by the SAPS K9 Unit, the suspect managed to escape and is currently still at large.
Anyone with information pertaining to the crime or the whereabouts of the suspect, is urged to contact the Newcastle police station on 034 314 6158/9.
As part of a safety awareness strategy, Mrs Arumugam has compiled a list of safety precautions one should follow when traveling alone:
– Plan your route, know where you are going before leaving.
– Try to walk with friends and not alone.
– Stick to well-lit, well-traveled streets. Avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots, or alleys.
– Be aware of your surroundings at all times and trust your instincts.
– If you observe anyone acting suspiciously, or if you feel threatened in any way, call the police immediately on 10111.
Must read on the website:
- WARNING: Don’t fall for new criminal method to rob, rape or kill you
- Road rage murder accused expected to reappear in court soon
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. You can also email our offices on reveshni@caxton.co.za OR Zianne Leibrandt at ncschools@caxton.co.za
Add us on WhatsApp today! Newcastle Advertiser: 082 874 5550 and BBM pin D1EF333B.
