TABANKULU - SAPS members in Tabankulu made a swift move on Friday 10 June 2022 and arrested a 59-year-old suspect believed to be the Principal of a local school.

The arrest follows after an outcry by school children, the community and other stakeholders after a 21-year-old school child was allegedly raped by an elderly in the school.

According to the report the incident occurred on different occasions but was not immediately reported to the SAPS until school children protested against the school authorities. The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation by the FCS unit.

A case of rape was registered and in less than 24 hours of the report, the police arrested the suspect. He is expected to appear in Tababkulu Magistrate Court on Monday 13 June 2022.

The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene has appreciated the work of the SAPS members who ensured a speedy arrest is made in the incident. "The suspect must now have his day in court in order to account for his actions." said Lieutenant General Mene.

Anyone who can assist in the investigation with more information on similar incidents in the school, is urged to please contact Tabankulu Police Station or call the Crime Stop number 08600 10111. All the information supplied will be treated with strictest confidentiality.

Source: South African Police Service