Ensure stringent safety checks for children’s transport in Limpopo

A deeply distressing incident has been reported in Botlokwa, Limpopo, involving the alleged rape of a three-year-old child who was being taken to her crèche. The alleged perpetrator, identified as the 66-year-old driver responsible for the transport, was arrested swiftly after the crime. The suspect, named Selaelo Justice Mongalo, has since appeared before the Morebeng Magistrate to answer to the serious charges.

Detailed list of the case facts

• Incident Date: Friday, 25 September (The year context suggests around 2025).
• Victim: A three-year-old female child.
• Location of Incident: Botlokwa, located in Limpopo province, South Africa.
• Alleged Perpetrator: A 66-year-old male driver, identified as Selaelo Justice Mongalo.
• Suspect’s Role: He was the driver tasked with transporting the child to her crèche.
• Arrest Date: Monday, 30 September, just five days after the incident.
• Arresting Unit: The Polokwane SAPS FCS Unit. FCS stands for Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences.
• Legal Proceedings: The suspect appeared before the Morebeng Magistrate.

Full summary of the case

The community of Botlokwa in Limpopo was left shaken following the horrific rape of a young child in late September. The three-year-old victim was allegedly assaulted on Friday, 25 September, while in the care of the driver who was meant to safely transport her to her crèche. This breach of trust, particularly by an individual tasked with safeguarding a vulnerable child during her daily routine, has sparked widespread anger.

The swift action of the police ensured the alleged perpetrator was brought to justice quickly. The South African Police Service (SAPS) launched an immediate investigation, with the specialised Polokwane SAPS FCS Unit taking the lead. Their focused work led to the arrest of the 66-year-old suspect, Selaelo Justice Mongalo, on Monday, 30 September, only five days after the alleged assault took place. The South African Police Service confirmed the details of the arrest in an official statement, which can be viewed here: SAPS official statement.

Following the arrest, Mongalo appeared before the Morebeng Magistrate to face the serious charges of rape. Cases involving sexual offences against children are prioritised by the SAPS FCS Unit due to the extreme vulnerability of the victims and the devastating impact these crimes have on families and communities.

Community questions and answers

• Q: Why was the driver allowed to transport children if he was 66 years old?
  
  A: While there is no specific age limit for transport drivers, this incident highlights the critical need for crèches and transport services to implement extremely stringent background checks, including sexual offender clearances, for all employees who have contact with children.
• Q: What does the Polokwane SAPS FCS unit do?
  
  A: The FCS stands for Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences. This specialised unit within the police service is dedicated specifically to investigating crimes of violence against women and children, ensuring they are handled with sensitivity and expertise.
• Q: Where did the suspect, Selaelo Justice Mongalo, appear in court?
  
  A: He appeared before the Morebeng Magistrate. This court handles the initial bail hearings and procedural matters related to the crime location.
• Q: What can the local community do to help prevent future incidents like this?
  
  A: Communities should actively monitor transport providers used by local schools and crèches, report any suspicious behaviour immediately, and demand transparency regarding driver vetting and safety protocols.
• Q: How quickly are child rape cases usually processed by the court?
  
  A: While all court processes take time, cases involving child victims are generally expedited. The FCS Unit works closely with the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure these sensitive cases move through the system as quickly as possible, often aiming for specialist courts.
• Q: Where can I find more news and updates about similar safety issues in the Thohoyandou and Limpopo area?
  
  A: For more stories and updates regarding local events and safety issues, you can check news reports on the City of Thohoyandou website: Local News Updates.