The child was playing with other children outside her neighbour’s shack in the morning, when the alleged rapist, who lives in the neighbourhood, took her to a nearby bush.
The matter came to light when the mother realised that the child was missing.
She reported the matter to community members, and the police were also alerted.
A massive search, which involved the community, was then launched.
It was during the search that the community members stumbled upon the man and the child, at around 3pm.
Sgt Mashudu Phathela, spokesperson for the Reiger Park SAPS, says the accused was severely beaten.
“Officers rushed to the scene to rescue the suspect from the angry mob,” he adds.
According to a source, who wishes to stay anonymous, the angry community members were about to set the suspect on fire.
He was rushed to hospital, where he was being held under police guard.
He was charged with rape and kidnapping.
A medical examination was conducted on the girl and the doctor confirmed that the child had been slightly penetrated.
Police ask community to refrain from mob justice
“Members of the public must be aware that to take the law into your own hands is also a crime,” says Phathela.***
