The incident was reported in December, but arrests were only made after months of inaction, prompting public outrage and intervention from local government officials.

The alleged crime took place in the township of Ipelegeng. Despite charges being laid at Ipelegeng police station, no arrests were made until Friday (4/4), prompting Community Safety and Transport MEC Wessels Morweng to step in and demand swift action.

During his visit to the victim’s family, Morweng expressed shock and concern over the delay in making arrests, given the serious nature of the crime. He described the situation as “a reflection of the moral decay in society”, particularly in communities where such “heinous acts” are committed without prompt legal action.

North West Community Safety and Transport MEC Wessels Morweng addressing the angry community of Mamusa. Photo supplied

“It’s shocking that no one was arrested until Friday. I’m here in the area of Mamusa following the incident involving a minor who was allegedly raped in December, and there were no arrests.

“I heard about the matter on Thursday, and immediately after that, I called the acting provincial commissioner, Gen. (Patrick) Asaneng, to swiftly move on the matter. By Friday, indeed, he confirmed that two men had been arrested.”

The two men (56 and 58) were arrested and appeared in the Schweizer-Reneke Magistrate’s Court on Friday. They were remanded in custody and will appear again on Thursday.

Morweng expressed his dismay over the delay, stating that it was incomprehensible why police had not acted sooner. He emphasised it was his responsibility to oversee police operations in the province and vowed to ensure that such delays would not occur again.

“It’s a worrying factor that people have committed this horrific thing in December, and only arrests were made on Friday,” he said. “My biggest worry remains what the police have done from that moment until now.

“It meant that women and children in the streets of Schweizer-Reneke were not safe because those two demonic individuals were roaming free.”

A strong message to all perpetrators

Despite the delays, Morweng applauded police for acting swiftly once the matter was escalated, ensuring that arrests were made and legal proceedings were set in motion. He also appealed to the community to remain patient and allow the police to continue with their investigations.

“I am confident that the law will take its course, and that no bail will be granted to the alleged perpetrators. This must send a strong message to all perpetrators of gender-based violence,” he said.

Morweng also acknowledged the public’s frustrations over other unresolved rape cases in the area and committed to ensuring that these cases would be followed up and resolved.

Meanwhile, swift action has been called for against those responsible for the alleged rape of a seven-year-old in the Eastern Cape. 

Concern has also been raised after the High Court in Gqeberha acquitted Timothy Omotoso, Lusanda Sulani, and Zukiswa Sitho of all charges related to heinous crimes, including sexual abuse and exploitation.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg