POTCHEFSTROOM – The police are investigating a case of house robbery and rape after a 52-year-old woman was allegedly attacked at her newly occupied home in the early hours of Sunday, 30 August.

According to police, an unknown man gained entry to the Potchefstroom residence through a broken window before allegedly demanding money and assaulting the woman.

The suspect allegedly raped the victim and fled with her cellular phone, purse and keys.

Police described the suspect as an African male, believed to be between 20 and 22 years old, with dreadlocks. He was reportedly not wearing a mask and spoke English.

The victim was later found outside the property by a neighbour and members of the neighbourhood watch after they heard her cries for help.

Emergency medical services were called to the scene, and the woman was taken to hospital for medical examination.

The suspect remains at large while detectives work to identify and apprehend him.

North West Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Adams condemned what he described as a senseless and brutal attack.

“Detectives are working around the clock to identify and apprehend the suspect,” Adams said, adding that police would continue working until the matter was brought to justice.

Police are appealing to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact investigating officer Constable Kefilwe Mashoko on 082 443 8805.

Information can also be reported anonymously to Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App.

Police urged anyone with information not to approach the suspect, but to provide the information directly to law enforcement.

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