Wedding trip turns into nightmare

A 36-year-old woman is recovering in hospital after she was allegedly raped by a stranger while returning from a wedding at Galekgatshwana settlement near Gakuto on Saturday evening. The woman had attended a wedding ceremony before leaving with a male friend later that evening but on the way decided to park beside the road for a conversation.

But what began as a quiet moment quickly turned into terror. It is alleged that while the two were still inside the parked vehicle chatting, an unknown man suddenly approached them carrying a large wooden stick.

The suspect allegedly threatened to smash the car windows if they did not comply. Fearing for his safety, the male companion opened the door and fled into the darkness. The woman also attempted to escape and ran from the vehicle in panic.

However, the attacker allegedly chased after her, caught her and dragged her into nearby bushes where he raped her repeatedly before later releasing her.

Reports indicate that the woman was sexually assaulted four times without protection during the ordeal. In a shocking twist, the male companion later returned to the vehicle and drove away, believing the woman had managed to escape from the attacker. The traumatised victim was later assisted and the matter was reported to police.

Confirming the incident, Mogoditshane Station Commander, Superintendent Mompoloki Ramaphoi said police responded swiftly after receiving the report and ensured the victim was rushed to hospital. He said investigations into the matter are ongoing. The Station Commander also warned motorists against parking in isolated areas at night.