DESPATCH – A man was arrested for the alleged rape and assault of his ex-girlfriend in Despatch yesterday.
According to SAPS spokesperson Captain Sandra Janse van Rensburg, swift action by members of SAPS Despatch led to the arrest of the suspect in the early hours of Thursday, 19 February 2026, following a report made at the station’s Community Service Centre.
She added that preliminary information indicated that the incident occurred at approximately 10:00 on Wednesday, 18 February 2026. “The complainant was walking home in Khayamnandi when she was allegedly confronted by her ex-boyfriend. The suspect reportedly assaulted her and forcibly took her to his shack in Ooievaar Crescent, Reservoir Hills, where he continued to assault and rape her.”
Janse van Rensburg also stated that the victim’s screams for help were heard by a neighbour, who intervened and assisted her out of the shack. “They proceeded to SAPS Despatch, where a case of rape and common assault was opened.”
Police members immediately launched a search operation, which continued throughout the night. “Their efforts resulted in the arrest of the suspect at his residence in Khayamnandi during the early hours of Thursday morning,” she said.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Kariega Magistrate’s Court today on charges of rape and common assault.
