A 39-year-old man is set to appear in the Nphuno Magistrate’s Court next week, facing charges of allegedly raping a five-year-old girl.
The accused, who works as a school transport driver, committed the heinous act on Monday, April 8, in the quiet village of Hlabine within the Maake region.
According to Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the suspect was swiftly apprehended just one day after the incident. During a brief court appearance on Thursday, the chilling details of the crime emerged.
The young victim had been under the accused’s care as he transported her home from school. However, instead of ensuring her safety, he took advantage of the situation. Parking the vehicle on the side of the road, he subjected the innocent child to a horrifying ordeal, raping her inside the transport.
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Despite the suspect’s threats to keep silent, the brave little girl immediately confided in her mother upon arriving home. The family promptly reported the incident, leading to the opening of a rape case. The matter was subsequently transferred to the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses (FCS) Unit for thorough investigation.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the Limpopo police commissioner, expressed shock and dismay at the brutality inflicted upon the five-year-old. She reaffirmed the police force’s unwavering commitment to protecting all citizens, especially the most vulnerable members of society.
The suspect’s bail application has been postponed until Thursday, April 18, allowing the legal process to unfold. Meanwhile, the police continue their relentless pursuit of justice.
