Durban woman leaps from moving taxi to escape rape attempt, sustains injuries

Durban woman

Cape Town – A young woman in Durban sustained injuries to her head, legs, and back after leaping from a moving taxi to escape a rape attempt.

According to Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa), the 22-year-old student boarded the taxi near her college.

After other passengers disembarked, the conductor attempted to rob her and then assaulted her.

“The victim arrived at Reaction Unit South Africa (Rusa) HQ with her family at approximately 08:32 this morning (Monday). She is having difficulty walking and utilised crutches.

“The victim informed Reaction Officers that she is a student of a college based in the Ethekwini Municipality (details withheld). On Saturday (20/04/2024), she boarded a Toyota Quantum minibus taxi near her college.

“The driver and conductor dropped off passengers while proceeding in the direction of Durban Central Business District. After the last passenger alighted from the vehicle, the conductor demanded that the victim handover her cell phone, backpack and cash,” Rusa said. 
Despite his attempt to rape her, she fought back, ultimately breaking free and jumping from the moving vehicle.

The Reaction Unit added: “The female attempted to defend herself but was overpowered and forced to the floor of the minibus. The conductor removed her underwear and attempted to penetrate her but was unsuccessful. The female kicked a window on the sliding door and broke free before she jumped from the moving vehicle. The taxi continued without stopping.”

A bystander helped her and contacted the police.

She was hospitalised for her injuries, including bruising on her legs, head, and back.

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Picture: Facebook/Reaction Unit South Africa

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Compiled by Betha Madhomu

Article written by