The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Hlanganani, under the Mopani District, has opened a case of statutory rape following allegations involving a 13-year-old boy in one of the villages within the Hlanganani policing area.
According to the police report, on Saturday, 23 May 2026, at approximately 15:00, the victim’s 67-year-old grandmother was at home when her grandson returned in distress. The boy allegedly informed her that he had been mocked by other children who claimed knowledge that he had been raped by a man known to him.
The victim subsequently disclosed that the suspect allegedly raped him on multiple occasions between 2023 and March 2026. According to the report, the victim did not report the incidents earlier due to threats allegedly made by the suspect, who reportedly threatened to kill him or expose the matter on social media if he spoke out.
The victim indicated that the last alleged incident occurred in March 2026.
The case has since been transferred to the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Giyani for specialized investigation.
Police confirm that the suspect has not yet been arrested. Investigations remain ongoing, and no further details regarding the suspect’s identity have been released at this stage, in accordance with standard procedure to protect the integrity of the investigation and the rights of all parties involved.
The South African Police Service urges members of the community with any relevant information to come forward and assist with the investigation. As the victim is a minor, his identity is protected under South African law, and media are reminded to adhere to ethical reporting guidelines concerning cases involving children.
