A 49-YEAR-OLD man has been arrested after abducting and raping a vrou with Down Syndrome in Goodwood on Thursday.
The 22-year-old victim was reported missing and according to the missing person’s post, she was last seen in a nearby park with friends before being lured away by a man.
According to police spokesperson Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, the 49-year-old suspect took the female to a premises in Wellington Road where he allegedly raped her.
A manhunt was launched by police, who found the suspect with the victim and arrested him.
Swartbooi said: “The circumstances surrounding this incident are still under investigation.
“According to reports, a 49-year-old man found himself near the corners of Wiener and Milton Roads in Goodwood on Thursday 17 July 2025 at about 6.05pm.
“He took a female aged 22 and went to a premises in Wellington Road where he raped the victim.
“The police members then launched a manhunt and apprehended the suspect on the same day when the victim was found to be in his presence.
“Bellville Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit are investigating cases of kidnapping and rape.”
Abdallah Sydney, Chairperson from the Goodwood Community Police Forum said that the woman was taken to a guesthouse, where rooms are rented out by the hour.
He added: “While we understand the need for economic development and accommodation solutions, the unchecked rise in these establishments, often without sufficient community consultation or oversight, has raised multiple concerns around safety, zoning, and accountability.”
“Our priority is the protection of all residents, with particular focus on those most at risk.
“Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and people with special needs, must be able to live in an environment that is secure, inclusive, and supportive.
“We are also calling for a formal review of current lodging operations in our area and will be engaging with the City of Cape Town and SAPS to ensure the protection of our residents.”
Candice van der Rheede, founder of the Western Cape Missing Persons Unit (WCMPU), is concerned that the alleged rapist is a repeat offender.
Van der Rheede said: “The constitution needs to be revisited. I see so many murderers and rapists are out on bail or parole without the victims family’s being informed.
“These monsters are then back in our areas repeating their cold-hearted criminal activities and nothing is being done about it”