MEC visits elderly rape victim.
NO STONE should be left unturned in ensuring that a 37-year-old suspect, who is accused of raping a 82-year-old woman in Noupoort, faces the full wrath of the law.
This was the instruction directed to the police by the Northern Cape MEC for Transport, Safety and Liaison, Nontobeko Vilakazi, during a visit to the victim on Tuesday.
Vilakazi said she was deeply saddened by the incident.
“It is extremely sad to note the violent attack and rape of an elderly woman, especially during the lockdown period. The elderly are the most vulnerable in our society. We condemn all acts of violence against women and children, especially the elderly,” she said.
She commended the police for apprehending the suspect.
“The prompt response of the police led to the arrest of the suspect. We are grateful for the manner in which they handled the case. The victim support services from the police will ensure that the victim receives the required counselling and support.”
The 37-year-old suspect was arrested by the De Aar SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit on Sunday in connection with the rape of the elderly woman.
The incident happened in Noupoort on Saturday morning at around 2am.
The arrest came after an intensive search was launched for the suspect, who was apprehended at around 3pm on Sunday afternoon.
According to the police, the woman was asleep at her home when the suspect allegedly broke into the house.
“The victim tried to resist the intruder but was allegedly strangled and then raped. The victim received medical treatment at the local hospital for minor injuries on the neck,” the police stated.
