Police have made a breakthrough in the Phiphidi graveyard gang rape case with the arrest of a fourth suspect linked to the brutal attack on a young woman and her male partner.
The fourth suspect was arrested in the Thohoyandou CBD on Friday, 3 April. He joins three other accused already in custody, including the first suspect, Mukondeleli Rambuda (38), who appeared in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 2 April, and was remanded in custody. Two additional suspects, Khathutshelo Tshivhidzo (22) and Takalani Nemaranzhe (28), were arrested later the same day.
These three, including Vhahangwele Rapea (25), who was arrested on Friday, briefly appeared in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 7 April, where the case was postponed to 10 April for further investigations and bail applications.
Limpopo police spokesperson Col Malesela Ledwaba indicated that more arrests are imminent as the manhunt continues. The arrests follow a horrifying incident in the early hours of Saturday, 28 March, when a 24-year-old woman and her boyfriend were ambushed near the Phiphidi graveyard while reportedly on their way to a funeral. The couple was confronted by a group of about seven men, with three of them going on to rape the woman. Her partner was stabbed.
Local royal family leader Khadzi Vho Tshimangadzo Tshivhase commended police for their swift action, saying the arrests have restored some hope.
“This incident deeply shocked our community, but we are encouraged by the speed at which police have acted. We believe justice will be served,” she said.
Community leader Ms Naledzani Mulelu echoed the sentiment, while warning that fear still lingers.
“We are relieved that arrests have been made, but people are still afraid. This has shaken us deeply. We call on anyone with information to assist police so that all those responsible are brought to book,” she said.