A prominent Limpopo government official has been arrested for rape in Polokwane. It is alleged that the senior official raped a Botswana national who had been deployed to usher soccer enthusiasts at the Old Peter Mokaba stadium during Cosafa matches.
It is alleged that the incident happened on Friday at a hotel in Polokwane.
Police spokesperson, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo says the suspect also laid a charge of extortion against the alleged victim, alleging that she demanded R200 000 for her silence.
“Well we can confirm that we have opened a charge of rape and a counter charge of extortion. Rape against a senior government official and extortion against the woman and the cases are being investigated.”
Limpopo Premier Stan Mathabatha has expressed concern over the rape allegations. Mathabata’s spokesperson, Kenny Mathivha, says the premier trusts that the justice system will efficiently handle the case.
“The premier is very concerned about the allegation labelled against a senior official in his office and we are watching the space and we are hoping that by tomorrow in court everything will be settled.”
“And we know that you are innocent until proven guilty. That does not deplete the fact that rape is a serious concern.”
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) released a statement calling for the accused to immediately be suspended.
They say the incident is a direct insult against the policies which the government of Limpopo has taken against woman abuse.
