POLOKWANE – A 66-year-old man who works as a transport driver for a crèche in Springs village, Botlokwa, appeared in the Morebeng Magistrate’s Court today (October 1) after being accused of raping a 3-year-old girl.

The suspect was arrested by the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) in Polokwane on Monday (September 29) and has been remanded in custody until October 8 for a formal bail application.

According to the Limpopo police, the incident occurred last Friday (September 25).

“The suspect dropped the child home later than usual. Shortly afterwards, the guardian noticed that the child was restless and in pain. She was taken to a medical facility where doctors confirmed that she had been raped,” the Limpopo police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba said.

He added that the suspect is the husband of the crèche owner and was responsible for transporting children.

A case of rape was initially opened at the Botlokwa SAPS and later transferred to the FCS Unit for further handling.

The provincial police commissioner, Lt Gen Thembi Hadebe, commended investigators for their swift response but condemned the brutality of the crime.

“We will ensure a thorough investigation, that the perpetrator is held accountable and the victim is supported and protected at every step,” she said.

Meanwhile, the MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, also expressed outrage.

“We must ensure that those entrusted with the care and transportation of our children undergo thorough background checks and are continuously monitored. When violence is inflicted upon a child, it is an assault on the very fabric of our society,” her statement read.