“A 58-year-old man from Roodepan has been arrested by Galeshewe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit members in connection with the rape of the woman.”
ANOTHER elderly woman, a 72-year-old Roodepan resident, has been raped.
On Saturday, an 86-year-old Warrenton resident was allegedly raped and murdered in her home in the town, while two elderly Galeshewe cousins, aged 76 and 79 years old, were raped, assaulted and robbed about two weeks ago.
The rape of the two cousins took place in the same street as the latest incident involving the 72-year-woman.
Police spokesperson, Brigadier Mohale Ramatseba, confirmed yesterday that the elderly woman was raped on Monday along Hammerkop Street in Roodepan at around lunchtime.
“A 58-year-old man from Roodepan has been arrested by Galeshewe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit members in connection with the rape of the woman.”
According to Ramatseba, the victim immediately alerted the police about her ordeal and a manhunt for the suspect was activated. “The suspect was later arrested in Roodepan.”
Ramatseba added that the suspect was expected to appear before the local magistrate’s court soon.
“The police investigation continues.”
Meanwhile, the police in Warrenton have also launched an intensive search for the suspect who murdered a 86-year old woman at Warrenton on the weekend.
“It is reported that the elderly woman was attacked by a gun-wielding man on Friday at about 10.30pm.
“The victim was robbed of her television set, five live chickens and meat from the freezer.”
According to Ramatseba, the victim, who was stabbed with a knife by the suspect, was discovered by a neighbour and was rushed to the local hospital where she later died as a result of the injuries she sustained.
“Anyone with information about the suspect is kindly requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Captain Fourie, on 082 495 4739.”
The police have meanwhile urged members of the public to download the MySAPSApp on any iPhone or android to have easy access to the police to, among others, provide tip-offs.
Members of the public can also provide information to the SAPS Crime Stop by calling 086 00 10111. Callers may remain anonymous and all information will be treated in the strictest confidence.
“The safety of senior citizens is always a top priority of the South African Police Service and community members are urged to ensure that our elderly people are protected at all times. Local stations or Community Police Forums can be contacted for assistance.”
The safety of the elderly came under the spotlight recently after the two Galeshewe cousins, aged 76 and 79 years old, were raped, assaulted and robbed of an undisclosed amount of money, allegedly by a man who they regarded as their own grandson.
The incident happened in the early hours of Monday, October 21.
A 23-year-old suspect was arrested and has already appeared in court.
