‘No individual, regardless of their title, position, or social standing, should ever be allowed to act with impunity,’ said Mchunu.
The Ministry of South African Police Services (saps) has condemned the alleged rape of an 18-year-old woman by a KwaZulu-Natal traditional leader.
They describe the incident as a gross abuse of power and a betrayal of public trust.
Alleged rape by trusted figure
The accused, a 54-year-old Inkosi, allegedly offered the young woman a lift last weekend but detoured to a remote and isolated bushy area where he allegedly raped her.
“This vile act, allegedly committed by someone who holds a position of leadership and authority, is a betrayal. It betrays the moral, ethical, and societal responsibilities bestowed upon traditional leaders,” said Minister of Police Senzo Mchunu on Sunday.
The suspect appeared in the Hlanganani Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where he was remanded in custody.
He is expected to make a formal bail application on Monday, 12 May.
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‘Premeditated and calculated’
Mchunu labelled the incident as premeditated. He expressed outrage at the abuse of the Inkosi’s status and resources to allegedly carry out the crime.
“It is clear that this Inkosi premeditated this and clearly executed his plan using his car,” Mchunu stated.
“We have never thought that we now have to engage on their involvement in the act of rape.”
The Ministry said it was communicating with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta) to discuss the broader role of traditional leaders in society, gender-based violence, and community protection.
Support for the victim
“We commend the South African Police Service for acting swiftly and professionally in response to this incident,” Mchunu said.
He added that the Ministry stands “in unwavering solidarity with the victim and her family during this painful time.”
He further assured that the justice system would treat the survivor with dignity and pursue the case with urgency.
“No individual, regardless of their title, position, or social standing, should ever be allowed to act with impunity. This is especially true in matters as grave as gender-based violence,” said Mchunu.
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