Tshwane – A Call for Justice
A shocking case has emerged from Soshanguve, north of Tshwane, where a 72-year-old disabled man was allegedly sexually assaulted by six men from the Small View Informal Settlement in Extension 10. The case, which has sparked public outrage, highlights serious concerns about police inaction and the treatment of vulnerable individuals in society.
The Tswane Crime Stop Movement has accused law enforcement of failing to act swiftly in response to the victim’s plight. Reports indicate that the elderly man endured the horrifying ordeal for 18 months under threats to his life, leaving him physically and emotionally scarred.
Disturbing Details Emerge
According to a family friend, Annan Thuntsi, the victim’s behavior changed drastically following the assaults. Speaking to Daily Sun, Thuntsi revealed that the man became isolated and withdrawn, and his health began deteriorating.
“He eventually confided in his caretaker at the old age home where he was relocated for his safety. I personally saw blood stains on his clothing. When I asked him about it, he told me to let it go, fearing for his life and the safety of those around him,” Thuntsi said.
The decision to move the victim to an old age home was made in consultation with his sister after his health declined. There, he felt safe enough to open up about the horrific abuse he endured. “He told the caretaker that six men had violated him and threatened his life. It broke my heart to hear this,” Thuntsi added.
Police Accused of Negligence
Despite the severity of the allegations, members of the community claim that police officers at the Akasia Police Station dismissed the case. The pensioner was allegedly told by a constable that he “did not have a case,” leaving the community frustrated and angry.
Thuntsi expressed her disappointment, stating, “The police have failed us. Even the Minister of Police admitted that law enforcement is failing communities. This case is proof of that failure.”
When questioned about the officer who allegedly dismissed the case, Gauteng police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Dimakatso Nevhehuli denied knowledge of the constable when given his surname. She urged those involved to provide the victim’s contact information to facilitate further investigation and internal disciplinary actions.
“Can the news crew please provide us with the victim’s contact details or physical address so that the station commander can assist him further? This will also help us trace the officer involved and take appropriate disciplinary measures,” Nevhehuli said.
Community Demands Justice
The case has ignited widespread calls for justice, with activists and residents demanding that law enforcement take immediate action against the perpetrators. Many believe that the failure to address the case reflects a broader issue of negligence and disregard for victims of sexual violence, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly and disabled.
As the investigation unfolds, the community continues to push for accountability, hoping that the authorities will act decisively to bring the culprits to justice.