PARENTS are urged to do background checks on the drivers who transport their children to school.
This after a 44-year-old scholar transport driver allegedly sexually assaulted a five-year-old pupil on her way from school in Hlabine Village outside Tzaneen in Limpopo on Monday, 8 April.
It was reported that the suspect allegedly raped the pupil after picking her up from school.
He reportedly dropped off other children as usual and instead of taking the victim straight home, he parked on the side of the road and "raped" her in the vehicle.
Limpopo police spokesman Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said afterwards, the suspect allegedly threatened the victim not to report the incident, but she told her mother when she got home.
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"A case of rape was opened, which was transferred to the Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit for further investigation. The suspect was arrested at his home on Tuesday, 9 April," he said.
The suspect appeared in the Naphuno Magistrates Court on Thursday, 11 April facing a charge of rape. His case was postponed to Thursday, 18 April for a formal bail application while police investigations continue.
A villager (33) said men who prey on young children should be heavily punished. "We are shocked and angry. The suspect should be locked away forever because it's clear that our children won't be safe in his presence," she said.
Limpopo Education MEC Mavhungu Lerule-Ramakhanya has condemned the incident. She said in instances where pupils are not using the department's scholar transport, parents are strongly advised to vet the drivers who transport their children to school.
"Our prayers and heartfelt support go to the victim’s family and the school community. The department commends the law enforcement agency for their swift action in apprehending the alleged perpetrator. We have confidence in our legal system that justice will prevail," she said.
