By Augustine Ehikioya
Some police personnel of the South African Police Service Office of the Provincial Commissioner, Free State Province has arrested a 37-year-old undocumented Foreign National for attempted rape.
The arrest was made by four Clarens Police officers who went on the operation just after completing their night shift.
Going beyond their call of duty, they climb the Clarens Mountain in pursuit of the wanted attempted rape suspect.
A statement made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA) by Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring said “The officers – Sergeants Lebohang Nhlapo, Thabo Makume, and Constables Lehlohonolo Rampai and Serame Lesenyeho – started their search around 10:00am and successfully traced and arrested the suspect in the mountains behind Clarens.
“The 37-year-old undocumented foreign national, a former local shepherd, was positively linked to the attempted rape of a 46-year-old woman on Sunday, 17 August, 2025.
“It is alleged that at about 08:30 on that day, the victim was jogging when the suspect attacked her, forcing her to the ground and attempting to undress her.
“The woman fought back fiercely, scratching his face and poking his eye before escaping. She managed to stop a passing motorist who assisted her in reaching the Clarens Police station to report the incident. The suspect fled into the mountains.”
It added that the suspect has since been charged with attempted rape and is expected to appear before the Bethlehem Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 22 August 2025.
“The case is under investigation by the Bethlehem Family, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit.”
Free State Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, has commended the officers for their dedication and bravery.
“Their actions ensured that a dangerous perpetrator was taken off the mountain before he could harm another woman.
“We urge community members, especially joggers, to prioritise their safety by exercising in groups whenever possible.”
