BLOEMFONTEIN – The Free State Provincial Tracking Team has successfully apprehended a 17-year-old male suspect in connection with a statutory rape case dating back to 2023. The arrest was executed via a J50 warrant of arrest on Friday morning (26 June) at approximately 11:45.

The apprehension follows an intensive investigation into a harrowing series of incidents that allegedly occurred between 2022 and 2023 in the suburb of Turflaagte, Bloemfontein. At the time of the offences, the victim – a six-year-old girl – and her parents were residing in the same household as the suspect. It is alleged that the unsuspecting parents would leave their young daughter in the suspect’s care when they went out.

The ordeal only came to light when the young girl fell ill. A subsequent medical examination revealed that the child had been sexually violated.

Upon learning that a formal case had been opened at the Kopanong police station, the suspect evaded capture by fleeing to a neighbouring country. However, following meticulous tracing operations, members of the Provincial Tracking Team tracked the youth down and arrested him at a residential property in Turflaagte.

In strict compliance with the Child Justice Act, the identity of the juvenile suspect cannot be disclosed.

Authorities have placed the teenager at a secure youth care facility. He is expected to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court shortly to face charges of rape.

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The South African Police Service continues to urge communities to report all crimes affecting vulnerable individuals. Members of the public can contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or utilise the MySAPS app to share any pertinent information in the strictest confidence.