Rustenburg police have re-arrested a 23-year-old rape suspect just days after he escaped from lawful custody in KwaZulu-Natal.

The man was originally arrested in Umzimkhulu last Monday after allegedly attacking a 28-year-old woman from the Sisulu location. Reports indicate that he forced her into a nearby house where the assault took place. The victim managed to flee while he was asleep and immediately alerted the authorities, leading to his first arrest.

Shortly afterwards, the suspect escaped from custody, prompting the formation of a multi-disciplinary task team to track him down. The team included members of National Crime Intelligence, Rustenburg District Crime Intelligence, the Phokeng K9 Unit, Kokstad’s Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, and support from the Rustenburg Community Policing Forum.

Police spokesperson Amanda van Wyk confirmed the re-arrest, stating that the suspect was located in Rustenburg following a tip-off. She noted that the circumstances of his escape remain under investigation and urged the public to continue assisting police with information to enhance community safety.

The re-arrest forms part of intensified efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat gender-based violence and ensure that offenders are brought to justice.