Suspect in 16 rapes detained in South Africa — TimesLIVE
In Durban, South Africa, police detained a 46-year-old man suspected of involvement in 16 rapes in KwaZulu-Natal province. Investigators linked him to the investigations using DNA, TimesLIVE reported, citing police.
Attacks since 2014
According to KwaZulu-Natal police, the attacks began in 2014 and continued until 2025. Fourteen alleged rapes occurred in the Cato Manor area of Durban, while one case each was recorded in Plessislaer and Taylors Halt near Pietermaritzburg.
Law enforcement officials said the suspect mainly operated at night. According to their version, he stalked women of different ages as they returned home from taverns, then attacked them and took their belongings. In some cases, according to the investigation, the man entered homes and raped women at knifepoint.
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Investigation and court
The investigation involved the Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation Unit and the Investigative Psychology Unit within the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit.
Police said the victims were unable to identify the attacker because he allegedly concealed his face with a stocking. Investigators established a similar modus operandi in different incidents and linked the suspect to the cases using DNA. However, law enforcement officials did not specify how the samples were collected or whether the DNA evidence links the man to all 16 alleged rapes.
On Monday, the man is due to appear before the Durban Magistrate's Court. According to the publication, he may face several charges, including rape, housebreaking and attempted murder.
