WARNING: Video may upset sensitive readers
A 62-year-old man accused of raping a nine-year-old girl was assaulted by community members, including children, in Langa on Monday.
Residents say police turned the victim’s mother away when she went to open a case and asked her to return the following day.
They took the matters into their own hands and police rescued the oupa as the community was beating him.
Street committee member Ncebakazi Nxawe says: “This would have not happened if the police registered the case.
“The family of the victim came back saying they were turned away by the police and told to return the following day and the community then took the matters into their own hands.”
A family spokesperson, who cannot be named to protect the child’s identity, says the alleged incident took place on Sunday.
“The child was bleeding after coming from the man’s house, but did not want to say what happened. On Monday, she finally opened up and said she was threatened if she said anything to her parents.”
He says the oupa has a daughter who is friends with the victim.
The community also marched to the police station demanding better services.
“The police station has been nothing but a disappointment,” said Ncebakazi.
“We need better treatment from the police and we would appreciate it if those in charge can speak with the officers to do their job properly.”
The oupa will be appearing in Bishop Lavis Magistrates’ Court today on a charge of rape, police spokesperson Mihlali Majikela said.