BLOEMFONTEIN – The case of the possession of child sexual abuse material against a 33-year-old man is set to continue in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 12 January. Parallel to this matter, the Bloemfontein Police Sexual and Electronic Crimes Unit is continuing with its investigation.
Lt Col Thabo Covane, spokesperson for the Mangaung police, said the suspect is charged with possession of child sexual abuse material, possession of a dangerous weapon, and assault with intent to cause Grievous Bodily Harm (GBH). Covane said an additional charge of contravention of the Immigration Act was added after an initial investigation revealed the man was illegally in South Africa.
“Several complaints were raised by parents regarding an unknown male who walked behind young girls and sprayed them with a foul-smelling substance, then walked away. These incidents happened at malls. The suspect allegedly secretly filmed his victims. The police, in collaboration with the security personnel of the mall tracked the perpetrator,” said Covane.
He said important leads received led to a significant discovery at the flat where the suspect lived. The suspect’s identity is not revealed as part of the ongoing investigation.
“A veterinary syringe was seized from him during a body search. A lifelike sex doll and a laptop with a paused video of a child performing sexual acts on an adult male were found,” said Covane. A veterinary syringe is used to inject or withdraw fluids like vaccines, blood or medications.
Parents who suspect that their children might have been targeted by the strange act of being sprayed with a foul-smelling substance are encouraged to come forward and give statements at police stations. Alternatively, they can contact investigating officer Capt. Bez Bezuidenhout on 071 331 8822.
