UPDATE: Police in Prieska, Kimberley, have confirmed the arrest of a 39-year-old who has been identified as the alleged rapist. “An intensive search for the suspect was launched and he was arrested today in Prieska at about 09:00,” the police confirmed.
Authorities in Kimberley have increased their efforts in tracking down and arresting a rapist that is considered a serious danger to females in the province.
Kimberley authorities heighten efforts to find alleged rapist
At this time, investigators have no reliable leads on the identity of the suspect. However, fears are growing that he might strike again.
The first known victim, according to Kimberley police spokesperson Brigadier Mohale Ramatseba was a 60-year-old woman from Prieska.
The incident took place at the woman’s home, in the wee hours of Monday morning. In a statement, Brig. Ramatseba revealed that it was approximately 01:30 when the victim was woken by a noise in her bedroom.
Before she knew it, the elderly woman was allegedly struck with a blunt object multiple times. It is not clear if she had lost consciousness but the woman remembered being sexually assaulted by the suspect.
Will he strike again?
Fortunately, the victim’s life was spared after the ordeal she suffered and the suspect disappeared into the night.
“The victim is currently receiving medical treatment in hospital,” Brig. Ramatseba revealed.
A case of sexual assault is being investigated by Prieska police. At this time, no leads have popped up and more than 24 hours later, the case has stalled.
The police’s greatest fear is the possibility that they are dealing with a serial rapist. While there have been no other victims who’ve stepped forward with similar accounts, the suspect’s methods have raised serious questions about his next move.
Police are racing against the clock to track down the person responsible for allegedly raping the 60-year-old before he strikes again.
“Anyone with information about the suspect is kindly requested to contact the Investigating Officer, Sergeant Riaan Van Wyk at 082 067 7135. All information will be treated with the strictest confidence,” the police statement concluded.
