In a distressing incident in Welkom, an 18-year-old matric learner was kidnapped and raped on 13 October 2023 at around 15:15. The learner, accompanied by her mother’s cousin, was waiting for a taxi next to Reitzpark Primary School when a blue Renault Clio sedan, driven by an unidentified male, stopped beside them. The driver offered to assist with the learner’s luggage, which included various personal items and a P40 Hisense cellphone.
According to South Africa Police Service, Taking the State Way road towards Theunissen, the driver diverted to an open field, where he brandished a knife, demanded cash, and committed the rape. Following the assault, he instructed the victim to exit the vehicle and left her stranded, driving away in the car, which lacked a rear registration number.
The victim received a lift from a passerby and returned home, where the incident was subsequently reported to the Welkom Police Station. The police have registered a case of kidnapping, rape, and robbery and are currently investigating. Detective Sergeant Mmile Raleting of the Welkom Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit is leading the investigation. The police urge anyone with information regarding the motorist to contact Detective Sergeant Raleting at 083 371 3984 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111.