An alleged child rapist from the Northern Cape was nabbed in Kraaifontein last week after the suspect evaded police for more than two years.

The police first issued a statement in March 2021, alerting the public that they were seeking a 42-year-old man in connection with charges of child pornography and the rape of an 11-year-old girl in Victoria West in the Northern Cape in March 2016.

He was scheduled to appear in court, but failed to show up, after which a warrant for his arrest was issued.

The City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security JP Smith revealed in a Facebook statement over the weekend that neighborhood watches and private security companies worked together to catch the fugitive.

Local private security company, SJC Security, told Netwerk24 they had received information on Tuesday that the man was hiding out in a property in Hill Street, Kraaifontein.

They called the police in De Aar and obtained the warrant for his arrest.

Security personnel stormed the property with law enforcement and Neighbourhood Watch staff on Wednesday night and the suspect was found hiding in one of the buildings on the premises.

According to the report, the suspect has already been taken back to the Northern Cape.

Several computers and storage devices were seized in the operation as well.

JP Smith has lauded the cooperation between agencies:

“Security companies much like Neighbourhood Watches, are playing an increasing role in those wanted for crimes. In pursuit of justice, one must be sure to operate within the confines of the law. The Criminal Procedure Act clearly defines the manner in which a suspect may be arrested and under what conditions, for such an arrest to be lawful. A “wrongful” arrest or a search performed illegally, can easily jeopardize a criminal case and cause an accused suspect to go free. While there are many security companies and individuals who are passionate in fighting crime, it is for those that are dedicated to following the law in detail that we must share our true appreciation. In this way, they truly add value to the fight against crime. Well done SJC!”

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