Ndudi Anyim
Two suspects who had been terrorising Mbhoshongweni community in Ulundi, Kwazulu-Natal Province have been charged to Mahlabathinin District Court and remanded in custody till April 6, 2021.
The suspects, Ntuthuko Sithole, 19, and Sithembiso Phakathi, 40, were alleged to have been breaking into houses, robbing and raping women in the community.
According to the Acting Provincial Commissioner for KwaZulu-Natal, Major General Thulani Gonya, the suspects are facing four counts of rape, five robberies and two burglary cases.
He said: “ These incidents took place between the period of January until March. The suspects mostly targeted people who were living in the cottages alone and who came to Ulundi for work purpose. At knife point they threatened the victims, raped and took their belongings before fleeing the crime scene.
“ Charges were opened at Ulundi Police Station and the Police began searching for the suspects who thought they could get away with crime. On March 29, the Ulundi Trio Task Team made a breakthrough when they arrested the troublesome men who were hiding at Mkhazane area in Ulundi.
“ They were also found in possession of properties that were stolen during the robberies and were both positively identified by the victims who were thrilled to see the perpetrators behind bars. ”
Gonya commended the task team who worked tirelessly searching for the suspects, stating that criminals should not think they can get away with crime in the province.
“ We hope the victims will find peace knowing the suspects will face the music, ” he said.