‘Suspect allegedly rerouted them to bushes at gunpoint’ – 2 girls in early morning rape incident on way to school

Cape Town – Police in Tonga are on the lookout for a suspect armed with a weapon, who is accused of assaulting two teenagers en route to school.

The man is accused of brandishing a gun at the two girls, aged 16 and 17, and forcing them into the bushes, where he then sexually assaulted them.

The incident occurred on 02 September 2024, at about 06:30 in the morning, police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli said.

“According to information, the two victims had to attend to an early class when they met the suspect. The suspect allegedly rerouted them to the nearby bushes at gunpoint, then raped both learners.

#sapsMP Tonga police have launched a manhunt for a suspect after two learners were raped while on their way to school on 02/09. Police urge learners to be vigilant. Anyone with information, contact #CrimeStop 08600 10111 or send information via the #MySAPSApp. NP… pic.twitter.com/TUggE7K0bg

— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) September 4, 2024

“The two learners were reportedly threatened to be killed by the suspect, should they report the incident to anyone.

“On arrival at school, the learners bravely reported the matter to their teacher. Police were in turn informed where two counts of rape were opened,” said Mdhluli. 

He said that the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit has been assigned to probe this incident.

“The investigators already began to probe and so far, an intense search was conducted around the area though the suspect has not yet been found and police are still on the lookout.

“Police urge members of the public who might see anything suspicious or have information that may assist in apprehending the suspect to call the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or send information via MYSAPSAPP,” Mdhluli said.