Violence against women and children remains a top priority for the Western Cape SAPS’s, therefore we shall continuously endeavour to bring perpetrators of sexual offences to book. This was shown again by members attached to the Riversdale police and Mossel Bay Family violence, Child protection and Sexual offences (FCS) unit ensured the arrest of a 19-year-old suspect on a charge of rape and assault with the intent to commit grievous bodily harm on Monday, 23 January 2023.

Investigation into the rape reveals that a 75-year-old woman was at her residence in Wilson Street, Riversdal on Sunday, 22 January 2023 at about 09:40 when the suspect, who is known to her, forcefully entered her flat. He allegedly assaulted the victim before he forced himself unto her and later violated her before he fled the scene. The victim managed to raise alarm and neighbours responded who alerted police.

Upon arrival the police found the victim who was later transported and admitted to hospital for medical care.

Riversdale police immediately assembled a team which commenced with a search for the suspect. His freedom was short-lived when the members tracked him down on Monday morning 23 January 2023. The 19-year-old was arrested and remains in police custody. He is expected to make his first court appearance in the Riversdale Magistrates’ court on Wednesday, 25 January 2023 on the mentioned charge.

Western Cape Police management commended the members for swift response in arresting the perpetrator.

Source: South African Police Service