Free State police have sent a stern warning to female hitchhikers after two girls were kidnapped and raped in Welkom.

Police spokesperson in the Free State, Stephen Thakeng, said a 19-year-old college student was on her way to school at Christoliet Street, Jan Cillierspark when she was approached by an unknown man driving a grey Mazda 3. The man claimed that his child was missing, the person who stole his child matched her description and kidnappers were demanding a ransom of R50,000. 

He alleged the stranger asked the girl to get inside the vehicle and she agreed. Thereafter, he drove with her near Masimong mine where he raped her and gave her R50 to take a taxi back home. 

Free State police conduct roadblocks ahead of the festive season. Picture: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

The suspect is described as slim, and tall, with a light complexion, and had a missing tooth in front with a scar on his chest. He was also wearing a dark blue suit and speaking Sesotho. Thakeng said police received information about a girl who was raped on Thursday (9/11). It's alleged the girl was on her way home when a white Mahindra bakkie stopped next to her while walking from Sylvania Spar in Jan Cillierspark, Welkom.

‘Girls must stop getting inside vehicles driven by strangers’

The driver offered her a lift to her place and the girl agreed. The alleged perpetrator drove at a high speed and started to use his finger in her body.

When they arrived at her residence, the girl managed to jump off the bakkie and open a remote gate. Two cases of rape were registered for further investigation.

“Girls must stop getting inside vehicles driven by strangers and if you feel threatened, scream for help to attract the attention of passers-by. Two cases of kidnappings and Rapes are now under investigation and we are looking for these alleged rapists.”

Free State police crime combating crime through Operation Shanela. Picture: Kekeletso Mosebetsi

Thakeng called on anyone who might have information leading to the arrests of alleged perpetrators to contact, Detective Sergeant Lehlohonolo Fonya of Welkom FCS on 071 679 0988 or visit the nearest police station.

OFM News/Keleletso Mosebetsi  Daphné