The man arrested in connection with a rape incident involving a 19-year-old woman in Bekkersdal appeared in the Westonaria Magistrate’s Court and was remanded in custody pending his bail application.

The incident on August 20 occurred on Khomoeahlaba Street at around 22:00.

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Bekkersdal Police spokesperson Sergeant Linkie Lefakane said the woman knew the 20-year-old rapist.

“The victim was on her way home from a place of drinking when she was approached by two men, one of them known to her.

They offered to accompany her home, but dragged her to a ditch and took turns to rape her,” said Lefakane.

The victim went home and reported the incident to the police, and a manhunt for the suspect was launched. He was traced and arrested the following day on August 21.

“Let us be extra vigilant and be cautious at all times,” said Bekkersdal police station commander Colonel Phumelele Matamela.

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