Teen girl raped at gun point, fake taxi driver sought

On July 22nd last year, a bogus taxi driver allegedly raped a 12-year-old girl at gun point after picking her up in Thabong.

According to the Lejweleputswa police spokesperson, captain Stephen Thakeng, the girl was awaiting a taxi at Marumo’s Stop, Thabong, when a fake taxi without number plates pulled over for her to climb.

“The black vehicle hooted, and the 12-year-old showed a hand sign indicating her desired destination,” added Thakeng.

As a result, the vehicle drove close to where the girl was standing and she climbed in.

Upon entering, she found the driver to be the only occupant of the vehicle. The man then told her that he had to pick up his child at 2010 Section, Thabong. However, the bogus taxi driver drove passed the 2010 Section and took the Riebeeckstad direction.

“Realising this, the teenage girl asked the driver where they were headed and the man responded that his child sent a message that he was in Riebeckstad,” informs Thakeng.

The man then drove into an open field with a lot of trees.

Upon arrival, the bogus taxi driver allegedly raped the child at gun point. Although she attempted to flee, the man grabbed and forced her back into the car. Furthermore, the suspect drove to Orange Groove Section in Thabong and dropped off his victim.

The 12-year-old went home and never told anyone about the rape ordeal.

“In February, the young girl wrote a note and left it in her aunt’s bedroom drawer. That was how the incident came to the family’s knowledge,” said Thakeng.

The police registered a case of statutory rape for further investigation.

“Anyone with information to trace this alleged rapist may contact detective sergeant Lehlohonolo Fonya of Welkom Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit on 0710322512. Alternatively, one may contact the Crime Stop number, 0860010111,” concluded Thakeng.