Paarl official in court after attacking woman with a knife in his home

A police officer is accused of raping a woman he was partying with at knifepoint.

Last Friday, the 35-year-old victim and her male friend met the 31-year-old police officer when they wanted to buy beer.

They ended up at the policeman’s house, where he allegedly forced himself on the woman.

The police officer stationed at Paarl police station is due to appear in court for the second time on Monday.

Phaladi Shuping, spokesperson for the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), confirmed: “IPID has arrested a 31-year-old police officer from Paarl Police Station on allegations of rape. The incident is said to have occurred on 28 June 2024.

“It is alleged that the 35-year-old plaintiff and her male friend were looking for a place that sold alcohol when they encountered the police officer at around 1am and asked him about a place that sold beer.

“They all went to a particular house where the police officer bought two beers and asked the complainant and her male friend to come to his house. When they arrived at the house, they drank the beers and the male friend later fell asleep on the couch.

“The police officer is said to have attacked the plaintiff, held a knife to her throat and raped her.

“She woke up her male friend when the police officer went to the bathroom and they left.

“She reported the incident to the police and IPID took over the investigation after the suspect was identified as a police officer.”

Shuping said the officer was arrested and appeared before the Paarl Magistrate’s Court. The case was adjourned to July 9, 2024, so that a formal bail application could be made.

Ilitha Labantu spokesman Siyabulela Monakali said the job of police officers was to enforce law and order and protect the community, not to harm people.

Monakali says: “We stand in solidarity with the courageous complainant who reported the crime and thank the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) for its swift action in arresting the suspect and taking over the investigation.

“The alleged assault and rape by a police officer represents a gross abuse of power and underscores the urgent need for accountability within our law enforcement agencies.

“Ilitha Labantu calls on the justice system to treat this case with the utmost seriousness and ensure that justice is done without delay.”

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Daily Voice