By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
A 50- year -old teacher at Mbilwi secondary school, based in Sibasa in Thohoyandou, has been arrested today (14 May 2021) by the police in Thohoyandou for allegedly raping a 17- year-old learner.
He reportedly raped the learner several times when she was 17 until the age of 20.
The respected teacher, whose name cannot be disclosed before his court appearance, allegedly raped the victim who was in grade 12 on several occasions in 2018.
Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said: “In one of the incidents, he reportedly offered to assist her with extra lessons, but instead took her to a lodge where he allegedly raped her.
“He thereafter threatened the child and then offered her money to keep her silent.
“The victim eventually opened a case of rape last month, in April at the Thohoyandou police station.
“Members of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) immediately took over the case and after a lengthy investigation, the suspect was then arrested,” said Mojapelo.
The Provincial Commissioner of the Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Monica Hadebe has strongly condemned these acts of criminality perpetrated against children.
“Especially by people who are expected to play a secondary parental role in the upbringing of a child,” said Lieutenant General Hadebe.
The suspect will appear in Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court
on Monday 17 May 2021, facing three counts of rape
The Mbilwi principal, NC Lidzhade confirmed the arrest.
“I hereby report that (name withheld) has been arrested today.
“D/ Sergent Kgatle from Provincial Detectives Polokwane came to school to arrest him.
“He was accompanied by other two SAPS police in full uniform and well armed.”
