The Makhado police are investigating three separate rape cases reported in different parts of the Vhembe district this week and have appealed for information that could assist in tracing the suspects.
In the first incident, a 26-year-old woman was allegedly raped on Friday, 26 June, while walking along the N1 in Louis Trichardt near a fast-food restaurant.
Police said officers responded to a complaint at about 18:25 and found the woman at the scene. She had allegedly been walking alone when an unknown man grabbed her and dragged her into nearby bushes, where he raped her. According to police, the suspect was wearing a face mask.
In a separate case, Tshilwavhusiku police are investigating the alleged rape of two 13-year-old girls, which reportedly occurred on Monday, 22 June, at a residence in Ravele, Riverside.
It is alleged that the girls went to the home of a man known to them at about 19:00 to deliver a T-shirt. Police said the suspect then forced them into the house and took them to a bedroom, where the alleged rape took place.
One of the victims was later reported missing before being found by community members. She was taken to her mother, who then went to the Tshilwavhusiku Police Station, where the girl was reunited with her family.
Police investigations into both cases are continuing, and the suspects remain at large.
Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe said police are working to ensure that the perpetrators are traced and arrested.
Members of the public with information that could assist the investigations are urged to contact Constable Lutendo Ratambo on 073 498 1833 or Sergeant Tshimangadzo Raselabi on 074 646 8390. Information can also be shared via Crime Stop on 08600 10111, at any police station, or through the MySAPS app.