Limpopo teacher arrested for alleged rape of 13-year-old learner
A 58-year-old teacher from Polokwane is expected to appear before the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court on a charge of raping a minor.
Police arrested a 58-year-old male teacher for allegedly raping a 13-year-old female learner in the Capricorn District, Limpopo.
Teacher Facing Multiple Allegations of Minor Abuse
According to South African Police Services, the learner was allegedly raped multiple times between November 2024 and March 2025.
The case came to light on 27 March 2025, when another teacher took the child to her mother and revealed the ordeal.
Police subsequently registered a rape case for investigation.
Authorities report that the suspect attempted to evade arrest. He initially claimed he was on his way to the police station but instead drove off.
He later informed investigators that he was in Hammanskraal, Pretoria, before switching off his phone.
Suspect to Appear in Court
The Mankweng Magistrates’ Court will hear the suspect’s case on Wednesday, 2 April 2025, where he will face charges of rape.
The FCS unit will thoroughly examine all evidence to build a strong case against him.
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Welcomes Arrest
The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has welcomed the arrest of the suspect, which took place on Monday afternoon, 31 March 2025.
The arrest followed an ultimatum by the Provincial Commissioner for police to track down and apprehend the suspect.
The Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit conducted an extensive investigation, leading to the educator’s arrest.
Commitment to Justice and Victim Support
Lieutenant General Hadebe has strongly condemned the alleged crime, reaffirming the police’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals from gender-based violence.
“This educator who allegedly raped the female learner must face the full might of the law. Those entrusted with caring for children, such as educators, guardians, and parents, must nurture and protect them. No child should ever endure such inhumane acts,” she stated.
According to IOL, she emphasised that the SAPS is committed to protect the most vulnerable sectors of society against perpetrators of gender-based violence in this province.
“The FCS unit will continue to work closely with the social workers to ensure that the family and victim receive adequate psycho-social support,” she said.
What measures do you think schools should implement to protect learners from sexual abuse?
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