Crèche Principal’s Husband Arrested For Rape Of 3-Year-Old Child

A 66-year-old man, Selaelo Justice Mongalo, has been arrested in connection with the rape of a three-year-old child in Springs village, Botlokwa policing area, Capricorn District. Mongalo, the husband of a local crèche principal and employed as the school’s transport driver, appeared before the Morebeng Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 1 October 2025.

He was arrested on Monday, 29 September, by the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) in Polokwane and has been remanded in custody until Wednesday, 8 October, when his formal bail application will be heard.

Details of the Incident

The alleged incident took place on Friday, 25 September, at about 18:30. According to reports, Mongalo dropped the child home later than usual. The guardian became concerned after noticing the child appeared restless, and shortly afterwards, the victim began complaining of pain.

She was rushed to a medical facility, where doctors confirmed she had been raped. The matter was initially reported to Botlokwa SAPS before being transferred to the specialised FCS Unit for further investigation.

Leaders Condemn the Crèche Attack

Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe commended the swift work of investigators.

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

MEC for Transport and Community Safety, Violet Mathye, called for stricter vetting of individuals responsible for children’s care.

“When violence is inflicted upon a child, it is not just an attack on the individual, it is an assault on the very fabric of our society,” she said.

The investigation is ongoing.

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