AFM church caretaker saves six-year old from rape

Danisa Masuku

A SIX-YEAR-OLD girl escaped rape by a whisker after a man who allegedly wanted to rape her in a toilet was disturbed by a church caretaker, causing him to flee.

The incident happened last Friday at AFM Cowdray Park branch, Bulawayo. A source close to the incident alleged that Selby Mapungwane (37) approached the minor at her home and requested her to accompany him to the shops and promised to buy her hot chips.

“The minor was alone at home, and he lured her to go with him. After they had walked a few metres from her home, Mapungwane lifted her and headed to a secluded place where he fondled and kissed her,” said the source.

After that, it is alleged, Mapungwane carried the minor and headed to AFM church and was intercepted when he was about to enter the toilet.

“As he was about to enter the toilet the caretaker bumped into him carrying the minor and asked him what he was doing, prompting him to drop the child and flee,” said the source.

The minor revealed to the caretaker that Mapungwane fondled and kissed her.

“The minor also revealed to the caretaker that she knows Mapungwane and where he stays,” said the source.

The incident was reported to the police leading to Mapungwane’s arrest. The incident was confirmed by Bulawayo Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube.

“Parents or guardians should not leave their children alone at home. But they should leave them in the care of someone they trust because leaving them alone exposes them to risks such as rape, indecent assault or even kidnapping,” he said.