According to the Northern Cape police spokesperson, Omphile Masegela, the accused appeared in the Upington Regional Court on 11 March 2021.

According to her, the accused was in a relationship with the victim. On 29 February 2020, they went to a tavern together. “Later on, the victim left the tavern without notifying her partner. He started looking for her and he later found her with another boyfriend. He proceeded to assault the victim and dragged her to their residence where he sexually assaulted and raped her,” Masegela adds.

After the incident, he decided to run away. The police launched a manhunt. He was later arrested that same day and remained in custody during the period of trial. 

In a statement, the South African Police Service (SAPS) emphasised that violence against women and children should be a priority and further urges the public to refrain from such acts.

The identity of the suspect is being withheld to protect the victim.

OFM News/Blaine Jones