Woman hospitalised after partner allegedly RAPES and assaults her with a HAMMER

A 33-year-old woman from Thembalethu near George in the Western Cape had to be hospitalised after her 38-year-old partner brutally attacked her in their home on Monday 16 August 2021. While the man has been arrested and is due to appear in court on Thursday, it doesn’t make the story any less shocking and horrific.    

Western Cape Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant-General Thembisile Patekile condemned acts of violence and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) aimed against the most vulnerable, women and children, in the strongest form possible. 

SAPS Captain M Pojie added that this incident is also against the backdrop of Woman’s Month that has been designed to celebrate and affirm the pivotal role they play in society.

PARTNER ACCUSES WOMAN OF HAVING AN AFFAIR

A preliminary investigation revealed that the couple had an argument at their residence in Thembalethu on 16 August 2021 in the early evening. 

“The suspect allegedly accused her of having an affair whereafter he started to assault her. He left the house to have drinks elsewhere and returned at about 21:30. He then continued to assault her by hitting her with a hammer against her head and also hit her with different objects,” said Pojie. 

It is also understood that the woman was raped. 

Pojie said the victim later managed to escape and seek help from neighbours who then alerted the police. 

“The victim was immediately hospitalised where she is receiving medical assistance and counselling. She has been discharged and taken to a place of safety where she will receive further counselling and support,” added Pojie. 

COMMUNITY LAUNCHES MANHUNT FOR THE SUSPECT 

The community later mobilised themselves and launched a massive manhunt to trace the suspect. He was eventually found the morning after and was immediately handed over to the police.

The suspect was been charged with rape and assault GBH and he is scheduled to make his first appearance in the George Magistrate’s Court on Thursday 19 August 2021.

“Provincial management has praised the community for their prompt intervention and handing over of the suspect to authorities, strengthening the relationship between SAPS and the Community in general,” he added.