Despatch man arrested on 18 charges

A 37-YEAR-OLD Despatch man was arrested on 18 counts of rape, sexual assault, defeating the ends of justice and theft last night (28/01/2016).

Police spokeswoman Lieutenant Gerda Swart said that the man was arrested by the police’s specialist family violence child protection and sexual offences unit in Uitenhage at about 7pm.

The woman, who lives in Kwanobuhle, was hitch hiking at the time of her alleged abduction.

Swart said that it is alleged that the 24-year-old victim was offered a lift by the man on Sunday, 24 January, at about 8.20pm.

“As they were travelling towards the taxi stand where the victim was supposed to get off, the suspect took out a knife and drove straight to his house in Despatch,” Swart said.

The woman claimed to have been held hostage by the man overnight. The victim was raped repeatedly during the night and was only released the following day.

“The woman’s cellphone and jersey were also allegedly stolen by the man,” Swart said.

Swart’s added that the incident was only reported to Despatch police on Thursday(28/01/2016), and the man was arrested the same day.

“The South African Police Service remains committed to eradicate violence against vulnerable groups and will work hard to tackle crimes against women and children in our society.  SAPS will remain focused and steadfast in our mission to fight crimes against women and children,” she added.

The man will appear in the Uitenhage Magistrate’s Court on Monday (01/02/2016).