Update

KNYSNA NEWS - Police in Knysna and the Southern Cape are continuing their fight against sexual offences and gender-based violence.

Last week five individuals between the ages of 13 and 41 were arrested in George and Knysna. According to Southern Cape police spokesperson Capt Malcolm Pojie, the arrests were for rape, attempted rape or sexual assault.

Attempted rape in Knysna

According to Pojie, a 39-year-old victim stated she was on her way to a store in the Knysna Mall when the suspect accosted her in an alley off Nelson Street during the day on Monday 8 August.

"The complainant alleges that someone asked for a light after which she handed him her lighter. He then requested her to wait as he needed to fetch something from his bag. While she was waiting, the suspect grabbed her from behind and indecently assaulted her," Pojie said.

The suspect was arrested later and is still incarcerated after being charged with attempted rape. He appeared in the Knysna Magistrate's Court last week and is due to appear for a bail application soon.

Praise for police

"The Garden Route District Commissioner, Maj-Gen Norman Modishana, has praised the members involved in bringing the suspects too book, especially while we are commemorating the struggles and victory of our most valuable asset, our women, who are regarded as the cornerstone of society," Pojie said.

"He urged the members to go the extra mile to defend and uphold the fundamental rights of all women, without any prejudice."

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