Limpopo – A 49-year-old Limpopo man has been arrested for allegedly repeatedly raping his 16-year-old daughter in a case that came to light after the teenager confided in a church pastor.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) said the suspect, from Mokgolobotho Village in the Mopani District, was arrested by Ritavi police following allegations that he had sexually abused his daughter over an extended period, including an alleged rape on 27 July 2026.
According to police, the matter first surfaced in May when a church member approached a local pastor to report concerns that her husband had been sharing a bed with their daughter, claiming he was helping her with schoolwork.
The pastor subsequently spoke to the teenager, who disclosed the alleged abuse.
“The victim disclosed that her father had been raping her for some time, but she never reported it and that he raped her again on 27 July 2026 at around 17:00,” SAPS said in a statement.
The matter was reported to police on 30 July, after which the teenager was taken for a medical examination.
Police said the suspect was traced and arrested, while members of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Tzaneen have taken over the investigation.
Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers welcomed the arrest, describing the allegations as deeply disturbing.
“No child should ever have to endure abuse in the very home that is meant to protect her,” Scheepers said.
He added: “This arrest sends a clear message that those who prey on children, even within their own families, will be found and will face the full might of the law.”
Police said investigations are continuing.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, X and Instagram
Picture: Pexels
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
