By Kabelo Abel Mokgalabone
GA-CHUENE: The Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offenses (FCS) Unit in Lebowakgomo is intensifying its investigation to apprehend a suspect who committed a brutal attack on his girlfriend.
The 44-year-old victim was subjected to a horrific ordeal in which she was doused with acid on her face, raped, and subsequently hacked with a panga, sustaining severe injuries to her arm.
The incident took place following a heated argument between the couple at Thokgoaneng Village in Ga-Chuene on Friday, June 7, at approximately 21:30.
According to initial reports, the victim had visited her boyfriend at his residence when the argument escalated into a violent assault. The suspect fled the scene immediately after the attack, leaving the victim in critical condition. Authorities were quickly notified, and a case docket of rape and assault with grievous bodily harm (GBH) was opened.
The police have launched a manhunt to track down the suspect, whose whereabouts remain unknown.
Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has directed the Lebowakgomo FCS investigating team to dedicate all necessary resources to ensure the suspect is swiftly apprehended and brought to justice.
“This heinous crime has shocked our community, and we are committed to bringing the perpetrator to justice. The investigative team will work tirelessly until the suspect is arrested,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
The authorities are urging anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect to come forward. Detective Sergeant Sarah Mokoena is leading the investigation and can be contacted at 082 469 1173.
