Breaking News: Armed Intruder Assaults Female Students in Limpopo Residence

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In a disturbing incident that shocked the student community, an armed man invaded a residential area in Limpopo late at night, targeting female students. The attack occurred on February 22 around midnight at a college located in Phaphadi village, within the Bolobedu policing area.

According to police reports, the intruder, described as an unidentified African male, held eight students at gunpoint. He led four of them into a passageway, where he committed the heinous act of rape before fleeing the scene on foot. The victims bravely reported the incident soon after, prompting a swift response from local law enforcement.

Police Action and Arrests

A joint operation involving the Mopani tracking team and the Tzaneen Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences unit (FCS) led to the arrest of two male suspects aged 18 and 24. They are set to appear in the Kgapane Magistrate's Court on charges including possession of suspected stolen property, four counts of rape, and business robbery.

The breakthrough came when one suspect was apprehended in Bellview village, found in possession of a mobile phone belonging to one of the victims. He could not satisfactorily explain how he obtained the phone, leading to his immediate arrest. Further investigation revealed a second suspect. During a search at his residence, multiple stolen mobile phones and a bank card belonging to one of the victims were discovered hidden under a bed.

Community Urged to Take Action

mobile phone stolen from one of the raped students to the arrest of two men and the recovery of more mobile phones.

On Tuesday, 

Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba confirmed that both suspects are currently detained at the Bolobedu police station. The police are actively urging anyone in the local community who has lost or had their mobile phone stolen during this incident to come forward for identification. The public can reach out to Detective Sergeant Dalton Makhubela at 082 414 6043 or 082 414 2953, or visit the Bolobedu police station for assistance.

“It is crucial that we work together as a community to support the victims and ensure justice is served,” Mashaba emphasized.

A Call for Justice and Support

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The provincial commissioner of police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, praised the investigative teams for their dedicated efforts in bringing these perpetrators of sexual violence to justice. Their hard work is vital in ensuring that such crimes are addressed with the seriousness they deserve.

In a related case last month, a 60-year-old man was sentenced to life imprisonment for the rape and prolonged abuse of his stepdaughter in a separate incident reported at the Groblersdal Regional Court. The trauma faced by victims of such heinous acts underscores the need for continued vigilance and support.

At the time, Limpopo police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the court heard that the abuse began in 2001 when the victim was just 11 years ago

This latest incident has rattled the student community, raising pressing concerns about safety on and around college campuses. As police continue to investigate, the hope for justice shines bright, reminding everyone of the importance of community cohesion in combating violence and supporting victims.