Members of the SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit in Thohoyandou have arrested three male suspects, aged between 22 and 37, in connection with a rape that took place in the early hours of Saturday, 28 March 2026, at the Phiphidi Village graveyard.
Makonde Rambuda (36) appeared in the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 2 April 2026, and was remanded in custody. Two other suspects, arrested on Thursday, 2 April 2026, are expected to appear in the same court on Tuesday, 7 April 2026, on charges of rape.
According to reports, the 24-year-old victim was walking with her boyfriend toward Phiphidi Village when they encountered a group of approximately seven males near the graveyard. Some of the suspects were armed with bottles and knives.
The suspects demanded money. When told there was none, the victim was forcibly dragged toward the graveyard entrance. She was threatened with a knife and repeatedly raped by three suspects, while her boyfriend was held at knifepoint and stabbed.
The assault continued inside the graveyard, where the victim was further attacked before the suspects fled the scene.
Police investigations are ongoing.