READ: Community Intervenes in Attempted Sexual Assault in Parkgate, KwaZulu-Natal

PARKGATE, KZN – On Sunday afternoon, a 33-year-old man was severely assaulted by community members in Parkgate, KwaZulu-Natal, after attempting to sexually assault a 43-year-old woman in her home. The incident, which unfolded in a residential area where both the suspect and victim reside, has drawn attention to community-driven responses to crime in the region.

According to reports from Reaction Unit South Africa (RUSA), the suspect gained entry to the victim’s residence after convincing her to let him inside. During a conversation, he allegedly forced the woman into her bedroom and removed her pants in an attempt to assault her. The victim’s cries for help alerted a family member living in an outbuilding on the property. The relative intervened, discovering the suspect in the act.

The family member quickly mobilized community members, who arrived in large numbers and assaulted the suspect, described as intoxicated at the time. The community then contacted RUSA for assistance. Reaction Officers arrived at the scene, secured the suspect, and handed him over to the Verulam South African Police Service (SAPS) for further investigation.

The Verulam SAPS has taken the suspect into custody, and authorities are continuing their investigation into the attempted sexual assault. No additional details regarding the suspect’s condition or charges have been released at this time.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of gender-based violence in KwaZulu-Natal, where police have intensified efforts to combat such crimes. In November 2024 alone, the KwaZulu-Natal Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit arrested 235 suspects in connection with rape cases and 39 for sexual assault, according to SAPS records.

The community’s response in Parkgate underscores the heightened local vigilance against crime, though authorities caution that such actions can complicate legal proceedings. The investigation remains ongoing, with Verulam SAPS expected to provide updates as the case progresses.