An 89-year-old woman was allegedly raped in her home in Nyavani village, outside Malamulele, in the early hours of Saturday, 25 April. A 29-year-old suspect was arrested shortly after the incident with the assistance of members of the local community.
Police said the woman had been asleep alone when a man allegedly broke into her house and entered her room. He reportedly threatened her and demanded money. When she said she had none, he threatened to kill her before raping her. After the attack, the suspect allegedly fell asleep inside the house.
The woman managed to escape and call for help from neighbours. A community member entered the house and found the suspect asleep.
It is reported that he was identified at the scene and police were called.
Officers arrested the suspect, who is now under police guard in hospital after he was assaulted by members of the community.
Provincial police spokesperson Thembi Hadebe welcomed the arrest but urged residents not to take the law into their own hands.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Malamulele Magistrate’s Court soon. Police said investigations were ongoing.