Rapist fakes own death to prevent mob justice

A 50-year-old man on Saturday faked his death to save himself from further beating by an angry mob after he was caught raping a grade six kid.

The accused, Peter Sithole, who is known in his neighbourhood in Glen Norah for selling rat poison raped the minor in her mother’s bedroom.

Sithole reportedly opened the gate, entered the house and dragged the child into her mother’s bedroom where he raped her.

He was caught in the act by the maid.

“I left the child in the dining room and how he lured her into the bedroom remains a mystery to me.

“I was washing clothes outside and, upon returning to collect some pegs, I caught him in the act.

“In fear, I rushed to call other people and he apologised as he dressed up,” the maid said.

Residents were quick to group and bashed Peter while others rushed with the child to Glen Norah Police Station.

The angry mob tied Peter’s hands and legs with electric cables.

He faked death to save himself from further beating.

The victim was quickly taken to a hospital for medical examinations and Peter was handed over to police and detained.

The residents expressed shock.

“We are now living in fear if we now have men who have such spirits of ruining our children's lives during day light,” a resident said.