The case of a 19-year-old rape victim in the North West province in South Africa remains unsolved by the South African Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). 

The mother of the rape victim says the police and the court are allegedly delaying justice for her 19-year-old Deaf daughter who has been publicly raped three times by two different suspects.

At the age of 14, Thato* was allegedly kidnapped and raped by a now 26-year-old man, unknown to her on 13 April 2019 in Sannieshof also in the North West province. In April and July 2023, Thato* was allegedly raped twice by another suspect who lives not far from her home.

Children and the youth in the community are said to have witnessed all three incidents and alerted the family.

For more info on the incidents visit : https://www.thedeafdiary.com/deaf-victim-raped-three-times-mother-blames-police-and-court-for-delayed-justice/ 

As South Africa observe 16 Days of Activism of no violence against women and children, the Diary Series of Deaf People (www.thedeafdiary.com ) calls on Minister Senzo Mchunu (SAPS), Lieutenant General Sello Kwena (North West Police Service), and Advocate Shamila Batohi (NPA) to prioritise this case and ensure justice is served. 

With the justice system allegedly failing her daughter, the mother has entrusted everything in God’s hands. How many others, like her have placed their hope in God’s hands, believing that the police and the courts have denied them justice?

We urge all South Africans and allies across the world to rally behind us as we demand justice for this young Deaf victim. By signing this petition, you are calling on the SAPS and the NPA to ensure the immediate arrest and prosecution of the suspects. 
 

The names of the victim, Thato*, her sister Nthati*, and her mom Mathato* have been changed. Their identities have been protected as required by law. All suspects cannot be named until they plead before court