By Staff Reporter
POLOKWANE – The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has commended the Botlokwa community for their swift and courageous intervention in rescuing a 15-year-old rape victim and arresting the suspect.
According to police, officers were called to the scene and arrested a 37-year-old man following an rape incident that took place in Botlokwa Dikgolaneng on Saturday, 04 October 2025, at around 15:30.
Reports indicate that the victim, aged 15, was sent by her grandmother to collect plastic with two friends. On their way back, the suspect approached the group, grabbed the victim, and tried to force her to go with him.
She initially managed to escape but the suspect chased after her and dragged her into nearby bushes.
He allegedly threatened her with a knife and assaulted her with a belt. Community members who witnessed the incident intervened, rescued the girl, and apprehended the suspect before handing him over to the police.
The suspect is currently in police custody and is expected to appear before the Morebeng Magistrate’s Court soon.
Lieutenant General Hadebe applauded the community’s decisive action. “This is what we call a citizen’s arrest.
The community displayed a sense of responsibility and accountability, and this is commendable indeed,” she said.
Police investigations are ongoing.
