TWO SUSPECTS ARRESTED FOR RAPE AND POSSESSION OF STOLEN PROPERTY IN MOPANI DISTRICT
Agreement Mkhari 
Two male suspects, aged 18 and 24, have been arrested in connection with the rape of four female college students and possession of suspected stolen property in Phaphadi Village, Bolobedu policing area. They are set to appear before the Kgapane Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 14 March 2025.
The incident occurred on Saturday, 22 February 2025, when an armed suspect allegedly broke into a student residence, held eight female students at gunpoint, raped four of them, and stole their cellphones before fleeing.
A joint operation by the Mopani Tracking Team and Tzaneen Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) led to the arrest of the first suspect on Tuesday, 11 March 2025, in Bellview Village, where a stolen cellphone was found in his possession. Further investigations led to the second suspect’s arrest at another location, where multiple stolen cellphones and a victim’s bank card were recovered.
Both suspects are in custody at Bolobedu police station. Police urge community members who have lost or had their phones stolen to come forward for identification.
For assistance, contact Detective Sergeant Dalton Makhubela at 082 414 6043 / 082 414 2953 or visit Bolobedu Police Station.
