Police minister Senzo Mchunu has praised the investigating team and the Orlando community for their assistance in securing the arrest of Pethe Sara Simiao, who is accused of murder and rape.
A search for the accused was launched on Monday after the body of six-year-old Amantle Samane was discovered in Simiao’s Orlando shack on the day.
Sufficient evidence for successful prosecution
Preliminary police investigations suggest that the accused lured the little girl to his home while she was playing with her friends before allegedly raping and strangling her to death.
The 23-year-old appeared in the Protea Magistrates Court on charges of kidnapping, rape murder, and contravention of the Immigration Act.
Mchunu said the matter now lies with the courts to enforce the law.
“Now, police are efficient. They have hunted this person supported by the community, of course. They have brought him to justice. Now, our job is done. We are now standing by the investigators and their statements and how they went about doing all of this, but have confidence in what they have done. The investigating officer,” said Mchunu.
The National Prosecutor Authority (NPA) said it has overwhelming evidence to secure a conviction against Simiao.
Simiao, who has not yet pleaded, has indicated his intention to apply for bail when the matter returns to court next week.
Meanwhile, the NPA said it would oppose his application on the basis that he is in the country illegally, has no home address and is a flight risk.
NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonodwane said the State’s evidence is solid.
“So we are also in a position to say that we do have enough evidence. There are prospects of a successful prosecution,” said Mjonondwane.
She added that because Simiao is facing schedule six offences, the likelihood of his release on bail is slim to none.
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