POLICE SEEK PUBLIC HELP IN TRACKING DOWN ROBBERY AND ASSAULT SUSPECT

Rustenburg – The South African Police Service (SAPS) is calling on the community for assistance in locating a ride-hailing driver suspected of robbery and sexual assault.

On the evening of Thursday, 6 February 2025, a 25-year-old woman fell victim to a horrifying crime after requesting a ride from Rustenburg’s Central Business District (CBD) to East End.

According to SAPS spokesperson sergeant Ofentse Mokgadi, the victim was picked up by a silver or yellowish sedan and seated in the front passenger seat. During the trip, the driver allegedly pulled out a firearm, robbed her of cash, and forced her to make an electronic transfer of additional funds. The ordeal escalated further when the suspect diverted the vehicle toward Bleskop.

Following the assault, the victim was forced out of the vehicle before the driver sped off. While she was unable to recall the full registration number, she remembers it containing “574 NW” or “547 NW.” Authorities believe the suspect may be of foreign descent.

The SAPS urges anyone with information that may lead to the identification and arrest of the suspect to come forward. Detective sergeant Mbulelo Wittes can be reached at 082 772 5563.