Manhunt under way after three minors raped near Khujwana Village, Limpopo

Police in Limpopo have launched an urgent manhunt after three girls aged between 14 and 17 were raped in bushes near Khujwana Village. The provincial force is seeking public assistance as it investigates three separate rape cases linked to the incident.

What happened

According to the police, the incident occurred on Saturday at about 11pm. The three victims, who live in Lephepane Village, were reportedly approached by two unknown men driving a red Toyota Corolla with an unknown registration number.

The men allegedly lured the girls by asking them to accompany them to a tavern to buy food. While en route, the vehicle was driven to a secluded bush area in Khujwana Village, where the trio was allegedly forcefully undressed and raped by both male suspects before being dropped off on the road next to a filling station.

How the victims were discovered

Police said a petrol attendant on duty contacted the victims’ mother on Sunday, 9 August, at about 3.45am to inform her that her daughters were at the garage and needed police assistance after allegedly being dropped off by a vehicle following a sexual assault.

Police response and appeal

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba provided the account of how the victims were approached and what investigators have established so far. The police confirmed they are investigating three rape cases arising from the attack.

Limpopo Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Jan Scheepers condemned the assault, saying:

“Gender-based violence has no place in our society. Our Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit has activated all resources to trace and arrest the perpetrators. We urge the community to come forward with any information that may assist the police in apprehending the suspects.”

How to help

Police urged anyone with information to contact the investigating officer, Lieutenant-Colonel Isaac Mahlane, at 082 469 2625, or Crime Stop at 08600 10111. Tip-offs can also be submitted via the MySAPS mobile application or by visiting the nearest police station.