Police working hard to trace rape suspect targeting learners

The police in Tonga, Mpumalanga, are working hard to trace a rape suspect who targets learners as they travel to school. Two learners, aged 16 and 17, were reportedly raped by an armed suspect on their way to school at Mzinti on Monday morning. According to information, the two victims had to attend to an early class when they met the suspect. Police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said the suspect allegedly took the learners to the nearby bushes at gunpoint then raped them both. They were then allegedly threatened to be killed should they report the incident. 'On arrival at school, the learners bravely reported the matter to their teacher. Police were in turn informed where two counts of rape were opened,' Mdhluli said. The Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit has been assigned to probe the incident. Police have urged learners to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings when they walk in secluded areas to and from school. 'Parents are also encouraged to give all t he support needed to their children so as to prevent incidents that may compromise their safety,' Mdhluli said. Members of the public who might see anything suspicious or have information that may assist in apprehending the suspect are urged to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP. Mdhluli assured that all received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous. Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi reassured the public that the team, including skilled SAPS members, are working around the clock to ensure that the perpetrator is swiftly brought to book. "We will not tolerate a situation whereby learners become terrified to go to school. As the police, we have intensified our efforts and, working in collaboration with community structures, we will soon make a breakthrough in this matter. Our aspiration is to corner the suspect before he can prey on another victim,' Mkhwanazi said. Source: South African Govern ment News Agency