LIMPOPO – “We want the courts to deal harshly with perpetrators of gender-based violence who have total disregard for the law.”

These are the words of Social Development MEC Nkakareng Rakgoale following the arrest of a 35-year-old man for the rape of a five-year-old girl.

According to a statement by departmental spokesperson Witness Tiva, the alleged rape occurred at Maphophe village outside Malamulele.

“Police say the man called his daughter, who was playing with her friends, to his room and he allegedly raped her. The suspect is due to appear in court today (January 26),” Tiva explained.

Rakgoale has condemned the incident and described it as “despicable”. “What has happened is inhumane and we cannot imagine what was going on in his mind when he committed this senseless act.  These are people who strip away the rights and dignity of the the vulnerable members of our community,” the MEC explained.

Social workers have been dispatched to provide psychosocial support to the victim, her family and other affected parties.

“We want to appreciate the family members who reported this matter to the authorities, as breaking the silence assists us to expose these evil deeds,” Rakgoale concluded.

Also read: Limpopo: Assistant teacher in court for rape of boy (11)