A 49-year-old man has been arrested in Limpopo, South Africa, for allegedly raping his 16-year-old daughter multiple times, with the most recent attack occurring at the end of July.
Allegations and arrest
Police confirmed the suspect was arrested following the reported attacks, which include an alleged rape on July 27. It is reported that the man had been sharing a bed with his daughter for some time. The alleged abuse came to light when the girl reported what had happened to a member of her local church.
Her father was then reported to police on July 30 before being arrested. The victim was taken to hospital for medical treatment.
Police investigation
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, a local police spokesperson, confirmed the arrest. He said: "The victim was taken for medical examination. Police traced and arrested the suspect. Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit members from Tzaneen are investigating the case."
Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers, Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo, added: "No child should ever have to endure abuse in the very home that is meant to protect her. 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."
Background
Police said that a pastor at the girl's local church was notified of concerns that she was being abused. They then spoke directly with the teenager, who disclosed that she had been raped multiple times.
The suspect, who had allegedly been sharing a bed with his daughter, claimed he was assisting her with schoolwork. Limpopo is the northernmost province of South Africa, sharing international borders with Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
