The South African Police Service (SAPS) Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit in Limpopo has achieved a significant breakthrough following a horrific sexual assault near Phiphidi Village.
Three male suspects, aged between 22 and 37, are now in custody in connection with the gang rape of a 24-year-old woman and the stabbing of her partner.
Details of the brutal assault
The attack occurred during the early hours of Saturday, 28 March 2026. According to police reports, the 24-year-old victim and her boyfriend were walking toward Phiphidi Village when they were intercepted by a group of approximately seven men near the local graveyard. Some members of the group were armed with knives and bottles.
The suspects initially demanded money, but when told there was none, the situation escalated into a violent confrontation. The woman was forcibly dragged to the graveyard entrance and threatened with knife. While her boyfriend was held at knifepoint and stabbed, she was repeatedly raped by three of the suspects. The ordeal continued further into the graveyard, where she was subjected to additional physical assault before the attackers fled the scene.
Legal proceedings and arrests
Limpopo authorities have made swift progress in the wake of the incident. Makonde Rambuda, aged 36, was remanded in custody following his appearance in the Thohoyandou Magistrate's Court on Thursday, 02 April 2026.
Two additional suspects were apprehended on the same day as Rambuda's court appearance. These individuals remain in custody and are expected to make their first appearance before the Thohoyandou Magistrate's Court on Tuesday, 07 April 2026, where they will face formal charges of rape.
Ongoing investigation
While three suspects are currently behind bars, the investigation into the sexual assault remains active and ongoing. Given that the initial report identified a group of approximately seven males at the scene, police are working to determine the involvement of the remaining individuals.
The SAPS continues to highlight this case under the #EndGBV initiative, reinforcing their commitment to tackling rape and gender-based violence within the province.