WATERBERG | Police in Hoopdal under the Waterberg District have arrested a 39-year-old man in connection with alleged kidnapping and rape incidents involving a woman and her young niece.
According to police, the arrest followed a tip-off received on Monday, 11 May 2026.
It is alleged that on Saturday, 09 May 2026, the suspect confronted his ex-girlfriend, a 37-year-old woman, and her 10-year-old niece while they were walking from the woman’s workplace.
Police say the suspect allegedly threatened the pair before tying them to separate trees a few metres apart.
The child reportedly managed to free herself and escaped unharmed before running to Skierlik Village to seek help.
The adult victim allegedly escaped the following day, Sunday, 10 May 2026, after the suspect reportedly left her unattended.
Following information about the suspect’s whereabouts, a multi-disciplinary team comprising Hoopdal Visible Policing members, detectives, Hoopdal Rural Safety, and Mayunga Protection Services launched an operation.
The suspect was later traced to a farm, where he was allegedly found sleeping inside a dwelling.
Preliminary investigations further revealed allegations that the 37-year-old victim was raped during the ordeal.
The case has since been handed over to the Thabazimbi Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) for further investigation.
The suspect is expected to appear before the Thabazimbi Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 13 May 2026.
Police investigations are continuing.