Community leader arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl.
He was arrested on Thursday, 9 April.
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Residents of Tshepisong in Ebumnandini allegedly set alight one of the units he used for consultation.
The arrest sent shockwaves through the community, where the suspect was known as a reliable leader who helped residents deal with crime and personal issues.
Residents said the man was deeply trusted and played a big role in the community.
He allegedly lured the teen by promising her heaven and earth after learning of her background.
“He was very helpful in the community. We relied on him for everything. He was trusted to help young people only to find out he preys on them,” said a resident.
According to community members, the suspect was seen as a “jack of all trades” who could step in and resolve almost any problem.
They said he helped with crime-related matters, mediated marital disputes and even helped address gender-based violence cases.
Now, the same residents said they feel betrayed and are struggling to come to terms with the allegations.
“It’s painful because we trusted him with our lives and our problems,” another resident said.
The incident has left many questioning how someone so involved in protecting the community could allegedly turn against the very people he was meant to help.
Others have raised concerns about how the suspect may have gained access to vulnerable young people under the guise of helping families.
Police spokeswoman Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that a 57-year-old man was arrested on Thursday, 9 April for alleged sexual offence.
“It’s reported that the suspect touched the 13-year-old inappropriately. The suspect is expected to appear before the Roodepoort Magistrates Court on Monday, 13 April,” she said.
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Meanwhile, residents said the incident has shaken their sense of safety and trust.
“This has destroyed the trust we had. We don’t even know who to trust anymore,” said a community member.
