Update

PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - The family of a 78-year-old rape victim has taken to social media to highlight the “disturbing lack of progress” in the case being investigated by the SAPS Serious Crimes Division, based in George.

The alleged rape and assault of the woman, whose identity is known to the paper, took place in Plettenberg Bay on 18 June - nearly two months ago - and since then, says the family, no contact has been made with the victim or her family, and no identity line-up has been done yet.

The Plettenberg Crime Prevention Association (PBCPA) has joined the family in seeking to resolve the outstanding case.

In a heartfelt plea, the victim's nephew, Simon Rolfe, said on Facebook: “There has been ZERO communication. The serious Crimes Division stationed in George, whom we believe are supposed to be the best of the best, are seriously lacking commitment or the resolve to bring the culprit to justice.”

In response to questions put by Knysna-Plett Herald, Southern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies said the police investigation into the matter is still ongoing and the office is therefore not at liberty to comment.

“It is advised that victims or complainants engage directly with the unit commanders responsible,” said Spies.

Among the questions asked were:

• Why has there been no progress in the investigation since 18 June?
• The possible suspect was identified on CCTV – why wasn’t the suspect approached, or questioned – a basic part of the investigating process?
• Why wasn’t a photo identity done from the CCTV footage to trace the possible suspect?
• The paper also mentioned that the victim and her family have tried to make contact with the investigating officer on several occasions – without success - and asked why the investigating officer has not showed the basic courtesy of responding.

Dismay
The family’s social media post said they are dismayed and hugely disappointed in the “lack of progress/interest to resolve the case”.

They also queried the police's stated prioritisation of crimes against women and children.

“The South African Police Service said they are committed to create a safe and secure environment for all the people in South Africa. The South African Police mantra is supposed to be: Serve and Protect!” said Rolfe.

Justice
The PBCPA has been working closely with Plettenberg Bay and Kwanokuthula police and various other security partners towards the greater good of all in Bitou the last 15 years.

“In support of the family, we urge you to transfer the docket back to Plettenberg Bay, allowing our local detectives, who are committed to service excellence and is better equipped to manage the case, which can bring the culprit to justice,” said Otto Olivier head of Operations at PBCPA on its own WhatsApp group.

“The community demands justice for the victim and we believe that local involvement is crucial in achieving this.”

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