The sexual molestation of minors by elderly people is fast reaching alarming proportions. In the past few weeks, a considerable number of such incidents were reported in Limpopo, more specifically in the Vhembe region.
In one of the incidents that left the community fearing for the safety of their children, a 10-year-old girl fell victim and was allegedly raped by her stepfather at Mulodi in the Mutale area. The incident happened at the girl's home in the early hours of Saturday, 5 July.
Vhembe SAPS spokesperson W/O Vuledzani Dathi confirmed the incident, saying they had opened a rape case. "It is alleged that the girl was with her brother while her mother had gone out when her stepfather came home and asked about her mother's whereabouts. He then [allegedly] raped the girl and fled the scene. We have since launched a manhunt for a 34-year-old suspect, who we believe could assist us in this case," he said.
The incident has ignited the anger of the community, who have vowed to assist the police in the hunt for the suspect, who is known to the community.
Community leader Mr Bennefict Nalana said the incident had disturbed the whole community. "We are still in shock. How could a man who is supposed to take care of the child do this to her? We will assist and work with the police to ensure he is arrested and face the consequences of his deeds," he said.
The police are appealing to anyone with information that could assist in finding the suspect to direct it to the investigating officer, Capt Milingoni Tshilande, on 082 414 9192.