Mother arrested for failing to report son's alleged rape of his 9-year-old sister
An 18-year-old man accused of raping his nine-year-old sister, together with their mother, who is charged with failing to report the crime, are expected to appear in the Letsitele Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the shocking case unfolded earlier this month in Lwandlamuni village, in Limpopo.
Police said the incident allegedly occurred on August 8, 2025, at the family’s home.
It is alleged that the teenager called his younger sister into the house, where he then sexually assaulted her. The child later disclosed the ordeal to community members, who on August 20, 2025, escorted both the victim and her brother to the N’wa Mitwa satellite police station.
Police immediately registered a case of rape at Letsitele Police Station. The matter has since been handed over to the Tzaneen Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, which specialises in investigating crimes against women and children.
The accused made his first court appearance on Friday, August 22, 2025, and was remanded in custody.
His 35-year-old mother was arrested the following day after police charged her with failing to report the incident.
She will appear alongside her son on Monday.
Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe praised residents of Lwandlamuni village for standing up for the young victim by reporting the matter.
“We commend the community for their swift action, resulting in the matter being brought to the authorities. This highlights the crucial role that communities play in safeguarding our most vulnerable members, particularly women and children. We encourage all communities to continue speaking out against all forms of violence perpetrated against women and children, and to support survivors in their quest to seek justice,” Hadebe said.
The case has sparked outrage in the village, with residents reportedly expressing shock at the allegations and concern over the safety of children in the area. Community leaders have called for parents and guardians to be more vigilant and to report crimes promptly, rather than shielding perpetrators.
Police said investigations are ongoing and more charges could not be ruled out as the matter progresses through the courts.
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