- Suspect Arrested for Alleged Rape: A 55-year-old man from Sikhulu has been detained after allegedly raping his 53-year-old neighbor with a mental illness, with the incident occurring early on 12 August 2025.
- Investigation and Legal Proceedings: The case has been transferred to the specialised Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for forensic investigation, and the suspect is expected to appear in Lusikisiki Magistrate’s Court.
- Police Response and Community Vigilance: Authorities responded swiftly, with police praising their efforts and urging communities to be vigilant and report abuse to help combat gender-based violence.
A 55-year-old man from Sikhulu locality in the Mantusini Administrative Area has been arrested for allegedly raping his 53-year-old neighbour, who lives with a mental illness.
The incident is reported to have occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, 12 August 2025, at around 00:15. According to police, the victim was asleep when she was allegedly attacked by the suspect. A rape case was quickly opened at Lusikisiki Police Station.
The matter will be transferred to the specialised Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) for detailed forensic investigation aimed at gathering conclusive evidence linking the suspect to the crime.
Police confirmed that the suspect is expected to appear before the Lusikisiki Magistrate’s Court soon on a charge of rape.
OR Tambo District Commissioner, Major General Norman Modishana, strongly condemned the incident and praised the swift action taken by police in apprehending the suspect.
“Lusikisiki police must leave no stone unturned in ensuring justice is served for all victims of abuse. Gender-based violence has no place in our communities, and perpetrators must face the full might of the law,” said Major General Modishana.
Authorities have urged communities to remain vigilant and report any incidents of abuse to the police without delay, emphasising the importance of collective efforts in combating gender-based violence.
