Management of the Bekkersdal Police raised concerns about the increase in rape cases in the station’s precinct.

Bekkersdal Police spokesperson, Sergeant Linkie Lefakane said alcohol and hitchhiking are among the main factors attributed to many of the incidents.

You’ll get armed perpetrators on the N12 and R28 that prey on victims by robbing them of their valuables and eventually taking turns to rape them,” Lefakane said.

She added that in some cases, perpetrators buy alcohol for the victims for which they demand sexual favours.

“In one of the latest incidents that happened in the Holomisa informal settlement on Sunday, June 20, the victim was allegedly raped by her ex-boyfriend, after her had dragged her into a shack. He was later arrested,” Lefakane added.

The public is urged to take the following precautionary measures to avoid becoming rape victims:

• Avoid walking in dark and deserted areas
• Avoid taking lifts from strangers
• Always observe your surroundings
• Carry a whistle that you can blow when you need help
• Always try to keep calm and make a mental note of the identity of the attacker

Visit your nearest police station to report the incident immediately,” Lefakane added.