🚨 Bolo TV News Network • May 12, 2026
BREAKING: 39-Year-Old Suspect Behind Bars After Brutal Assault and Kidnapping in Hoopdal
BY AFRIKABELO NEWS | #HOOPDAL #WATERBERG #GBV #SAPS #CRIMEWATCH #LIMPOPO
HOOPDAL – A manhunt in the Waterberg District has concluded with the arrest of a 39-year-old man following a harrowing weekend ordeal involving the kidnapping and alleged rape of his ex-girlfriend.
The incident began on Saturday, 09 May 2026, as the 37-year-old woman and her 10-year-old niece were walking home from the woman’s workplace. The suspect allegedly confronted them, using threats to overpower both victims before tying them to separate trees in a secluded area.
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A Brave Escape and a Joint Police Operation
The young girl displayed incredible bravery, managing to free herself from the tree and flee to Skierlik Village to seek help. However, the woman remained trapped until Sunday, 10 May, when she finally escaped after being left alone by the suspect.
A multi-disciplinary team—including Hoopdal Visible Policing, Detectives, Rural Safety, and Mayunga Protection Services—tracked the suspect to a nearby farm. He was found asleep inside a house and taken into custody without incident.
Court Appearance Imminent
Preliminary investigations have confirmed that the victim was raped during the ordeal. The case has now been officially handed over to the Thabazimbi Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for further expert handling.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Thabazimbi Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday, 13 May 2026, to face charges of rape and kidnapping.
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