Manhunt for suspected Limpopo rapists

Monday, August 18, 2014

By More Matshediso

Pretoria - Hlanganani police are searching for two suspects, who allegedly raped and assaulted an 83-year-old woman in Sereni village, Limpopo.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning. Two suspects forced themselves into the elderly woman’s room, dragging her from her bed to the nearby bushes to rape and assault her, before setting her house alight.

Limpopo police spokesperson, Brigadier Hangwani Mulaudzi, said the assailants allegedly wore balaclavas throughout the incident.

“The victim was admitted at Elim Hospital but was declared dead later that day,” said Mulaudzi.

He urged anyone, who might have information on this case, to contact Investigating Officer, Warrant Officer Raphahlelo, on 073 427 8604 or contact the nearest police station.

Meanwhile, Mulaudzi said another suspect, who escaped from police holding cells at Thohoyandou police station more than a week ago, has been rearrested.

“Tshilidzi Nelson Masindi (36) is now under police guard at a hospital after he was severely assaulted by community members, who responded to a call by two women he allegedly attempted to rape at Mvudi Park in Muledane on Saturday morning,” said Mulaudzi.

He said the 36-year-old is facing charges of rape, burglaries, assault and murder, escaping from lawful custody and a case of attempted rape has been added.

“Masindi left police custody wearing a police uniform, which he stole from a steel cabinet where court orderlies store their uniforms. Internal processes are still underway for the officer whose uniform aided the suspect to flee,” said Mulaudzi. - SAnews.gov.za