Eastern Cape SAPS is alarmed at the spike of rape incidents in short space of time especially on special public holidays. Mthatha Cluster registered at least ten cases of rape on Christmas Day only. Nine suspects have been arrested and made their first appearance in various courts within that cluster.
A 89 year old female senior citizen was raped and fortunately was able to remember who raped her. The suspect left some clothing items on the crime scene that were later positively identified by his wife as property of her spouse. The suspect, Makhosandile Mjikeliso shot himself before police could arrest him.
Three suspects Lwando Nkwakha (16), Siyabulela Dlokolo (19) and Onke Nkwakha (19) were arrested in Mthatha, Manyoni location for raping a 16 year old girl. The suspects appeared in Mthatha Magistrate Court on 27 December 2018.
Thobela Mahamba, 29, was arrested for raping a 27 year-old woman and he appeared in Tsolo Magistrate Court on 27 December 2018.
Alungile Gqokoma, 21, was arrested for raping a 14 year old girl and he appeared in Tsolo Magistrate Court on 27 December 2018.
Sizwe Bangani, 68, was arrested for raping a 45 year old woman and he appeared in Libode Magistrate Court on 27 December 2018.
Monwabisi Gwayi, 60, was arrested for raping a 45 year-old woman and he appeared in Libode Magistrate Court on 27 December 2018.
Sibulele Mazinyo, 26, was arrested for raping a 20 year old girl and he appeared in Tsolo Magistrate Court on 27 December 2018.
Vuyisa Mgambu, 27, was arrested for raping a 23 year-old woman and he appeared in Tsolo Magistrate Court on 27 December 2018.
Eastern Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lt Gen Liziwe Ntshinga issued a warning to all those enjoying the holidays to be wary as criminals and rapists are also lying low waiting to prey on unsuspecting victims.
“Most of the rape cases happen near tavern and victims are usually inebriated. We call up on all police on duty to stamp their authority in closing illegal liquor outlets and enforcing compliance to stipulated times of business for those legal operators. Those who are enjoying the end of the year and celebrating new year, celebrate with caution and be your ‘brother or sisters keeper’ to each other”, she suggested.
She also took the time to wish everyone a prosperous, crime free and safe new year.
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