Residents of Maluti and Matatiele continue to question the whereabouts of a man who has been evading arrest for nearly three months after allegedly raping his daughter.
Police in Maluti first confirmed investigations into the alleged rape of a minor in a statement released on 17 March 2026. According to Eastern Cape police spokesperson Captain Majola Nkohli, the incident allegedly occurred on the morning of Sunday, 15 March 2026, at Maritseng location. A criminal case was opened later that same day.
Captain Nkohli said police could not divulge further details surrounding the incident due to the sensitive nature of the case and in an effort to protect the identity of the victim.
Despite the case being opened in March, the suspect has still not been arrested and is believed to be on the run.
Commenting on the matter, Holekane Women Support Organisation, a local organisation advocating against gender-based violence in Matatiele, expressed concern over the handling of the case.
The organisation’s leader, Nomvula Qola, said the failure to arrest the suspect promptly reflects broader shortcomings in the justice system’s response to gender-based violence cases.
“As the Holekane Women Support Organisation, we are deeply concerned by the failure of the justice system to act swiftly and decisively in cases of sexual molestation, especially when the perpetrator is allowed to remain free and even disappear after the case was opened,” said Qola.
“It is unacceptable that a father accused of such a crime was not arrested in time and was given the opportunity to evade accountability, while the survivor is left to live with trauma and fear. This reflects a deeper problem in how SAPS and the broader justice system handle gender-based violence – the lack of urgency, accountability, and protection for victims.”
Qola further called on law enforcement authorities to prioritise cases involving women and children.
“We demand that law enforcement treat these cases with the seriousness they deserve, act without delay, and ensure that no perpetrator is allowed to roam free while justice is delayed. The safety and dignity of women and children must come first,” she added.
Meanwhile, Captain Majola Nkohli confirmed that investigations are at an advanced stage.
“The investigation is at an advanced stage, and our team of detectives is hot on the heels of the suspect,” said Nkohli.
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