The stark horror of rape reared its ugly head in the Phoenix area recently and police urges victims to break the silence and try and work towards healing from the horrific ordeal.
In a shocking alleged rape incident, a male claimed he was raped by another man on the pretext of offering him a job in the vicinity of Starwood recently. According to Phoenix SAPS communications officer, Captain L. Naidoo, the startling details were provided by the victim who laid a report of rape at the Phoenix police station.
“The vile incident occurred on Wednesday, 24 March, when the complainant was allegedly duped into believing that the suspect had a tree cutting job for him. The victim further claimed that the suspect walked with him on foot to a house near Parthenon Street. The victim alleged that the suspect took him to a house and told him to relax at which point he pointed out a toilet and bathroom and encouraged the victim to undress and wash his clothing as well as take a shower,” said Cpt Naidoo.
“The victim claims that while he was undressed, the accused touched his genitals and requested that the complainant touch his genitals in return. The victim further claims that the suspect stated he wanted to engage in sexual activity with him and then forcefully raped him against his will,” said Cpt Naidoo.
In a separate incident, a woman seeking a job claims she was raped by a man who claimed he had a job opportunity for her, on Wednesday, 24 March. Cpt Naidoo said that the victim followed the suspect who claimed that his employer was looking to hire an employee. “Upon following the suspect, they stopped at a park in Weycroft, where they exchanged telephone numbers. The accused informed the complainant to wait there. Thereafter the accused called the complainant to follow him and meet the employer. As they were passing the bush, the accused attacked the victim and assaulted her with an open palm. He undressed her and also undressed himself after which he allegedly proceeded to rape her,” Cpt Naidoo said. The complainant reported at the station to open a case. No arrest has been made.
In another incident, a wife reported a case of rape against her husband after he forcefully engaged in sexual activity with her despite her claims of refusal, in Trenance Manor, Phoenix, recently. “The victim alleged that she informed the accused that sex was not part of their agreement but he proceeded to rape her. The 48-year-old man was arrested and charged,” said Cpt Naidoo.
“The occurrence of these heinous crimes is horrendous and alarming. We urge members of the public to be wary when seeking employment and refrain from trusting strangers. There have been too many incidents of rape taking place in this manner and we have informed the public to guard against this via various media publications and platforms,” said Cpt Naidoo.
Phoenix Community Police Forum chairperson, Umesh Sigh, said: “These despicable reports of such violence are slammed and we pray for healing for the victims. No still means no. It is appalling that a man claims he was raped in such a callous way. Job seekers are urged to be cautious when searching for employment. Predators can identify the vulnerable and they pounce, luring their victims and inflicting harm on them.”
