Pretoria: The South African Police Service (SAPS) has expressed commendation for 35-year-old Constable Refilwe Calphonia Rapelang, an investigator with the Kathu Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in the Northern Cape.
According to South African Government News Agency, Constable Rapelang began her journey with the police service in 2017. Her aptitude for investigating crimes against women and children was identified during her Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP). After receiving in-service training at the Postmasburg FCS Unit, she was permanently assigned to the Kathu FCS Unit as an investigator.
Reflecting on her career, which spans over nine years, Constable Rapelang emphasizes her daily commitment to protecting and serving the South African public. Her efforts have led to numerous successful convictions in court. Notably, her recent work resulted in the Kathu Regional Court sentencing 40-year-old Carlos Domingos to two life imprisonment terms for the rape of two minor girls, aged seven and ten.
The incident came to light on Saturday, 11 October 2025, when a community member observed Domingos with the two girls at a local dumping site and informed their parents. The victims then revealed the events, leading to Domingos' immediate arrest. Constable Rapelang, with the aid of a forensic social worker, conducted a thorough investigation that culminated in a strong case against Domingos, who remained in custody until sentencing.
In addition to her investigative work, Rapelang engages in community initiatives to raise awareness about preventing gender-based violence, child abuse, and sexual offences. As a mother of two, she manages her demanding role by maintaining her physical and mental health through long-distance running.
Rapelang stated, "As an investigator of crimes against women, children and other vulnerable persons, my duty goes beyond building cases; it is about giving victims a voice, pursuing justice with compassion and integrity, and ensuring that those who prey on the vulnerable are held accountable."
The SAPS continues to honor women like Constable Rapelang during Women's Month, recognizing their dedication to the Reset Agenda by enhancing public trust, maintaining the rule of law, and delivering professional and ethical policing. This commitment aims to create a safer South Africa where women and girls can live without fear.