A 57-year-old man was arrested on Wednesday within hours after allegedly raping a 16-year-old in Gelvandale. It is alleged that while the young victim suffered this horrendous ordeal in a bedroom, drinking continued unabated in other parts of the Antelope Street house.
Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Executive Mayor Mongameli Bobani said although the swift action could be considered scant retribution for the victim, the quick capture of the culprit might have saved other potential victims from this man.
“Rape is a heinous crime that should ideally not befall anyone. However, it makes a distinct difference when immediate action and success follows such undesirable incidents.
“My heart goes out to the victim and her family and I trust that the National Prosecuting Authority will handle this matter with the same gravity our law enforcement teams did,” Mayor Bobani said.
Acting Metro Police Chief Frik Terblanche reckons the quicker law enforcement arrest criminals; the more prospective criminals will be hesitant to commit crimes.
“While on patrol in Gelvandale on Wednesday at approximately 10am, our officers were informed about the crime and the identity of the culprit. Following a visit at the address in Antelope Street, our officers arrested the suspect at a betting establishment in Korsten.
“The suspect was identified and placed under arrest for rape and booked at Gelvandale SAPS.
“The victim was taken to Dora Nginza hospital to meet with social workers and will be placed at a Place of Safety.
“I commend the officers as their determination paid off. The current scourge of abuse against women and children requires law enforcement agencies to act swiftly to bring all offenders to book. This will further serve as a deterrent,” Terblanche said.
The Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Metro Police and the South African Police Services collaborate closely to fight crime with regular interactions and operations.
The suspect will appear in court tomorrow.
NMB Communications
Latest posts by NMB Communications (see all)
- Join The Celebration - 26 February 2025
- 6 Municipal Employees Supended - 15 January 2025
- Fishwater Flats Wastewater Treatment Plant Work Progressing Well - 10 January 2025
- Kliprand Protest Brings Action - 7 January 2025
- Mayor Tells Us Why We Had a Successful Festive Season in Nelson Mandela Bay - 6 January 2025
