Police in Namakgale Zone B outside Phalaborwa have arrested a 36-year-old shop owner for allegedly raping a 10-year-old girl on Sunday 08 May 2022. The victim reportedly went to the local shop at about 11:00 after she was sent to buy airtime vouchers.

Instead of giving her airtime, the shop owner allegedly locked the door and raped her inside. After the incident, the suspect let the child go and when she arrived home she then informed one of the family members.

SHOP OWNER ARRESTED FOR RAPING 10-YEAR-OLD

The police were immediately notified and a case of rape was opened. The suspect was also apprehended at his shop on the same day. He will appear in the Namakgale Magistrate’s Court today, 10 May 2022 for formal bail application.

POLICE CONDEMN CASE

The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has commended the swifty arrest of the suspect.

“We are deeply concerned by incidents where vulnerable children are being abused and sexually exploited by older men. We call upon community members to join the Police in the fight against Gender Based Violence and Femicide. Also report all cases of this nature to the nearest police,” Concluded Lieutenant General Hadebe.

Police investigations are also continuing.