Polokwane – A 23-year-old man has been arrested by the Masisi police for allegedly raping an 11-year-old girl in Tshipise Sagole village, outside Musina in the Vhembe District. The arrest was made on Friday, 17 November 2023, following the incident that occurred a week earlier.

According to South African Police Service, on the evening of Friday, 10 November 2023, the young victim was playing on the street with her sister when the suspect invited her to watch television in his room. It is alleged that he then forcibly undressed and raped her. After the assault, the victim was allowed to return home.

The incident was reported to the authorities the following morning, on Saturday, 11 November 2023, by the victim’s mother. The case was initially filed at Masisi police station and was subsequently transferred to the Musina Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for further investigation.

Following the report, police successfully located and apprehended the suspect at his homestead. He is scheduled to appear before the Musina Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 20 November 2023, where he will face charges of rape.

The incident has raised concerns in the local community about the safety of children and the need for increased vigilance and protective measures.