Dominionville, North West –

The man who raped a 73-year-old wheelchair-bound woman in Dominionville should be punished severely, the North West DA said on Tuesday.

Democratic Alliance provincial spokesman Tiaan Kotzé said such an act against a defenceless old woman called for an increased commitment by the police.

“We urge the police to act quickly in apprehending the suspect, and for the community to give their full co-operation,” he said.

North West police confirmed a rape case was being investigated.

Captain Aafje Botman said the old woman was alone at her home when she was attacked and raped.

“Neighbours rushed to the scene after they were alerted by barking dogs,” she said.

The rapist managed to flee before the neighbours arrived.

Kotzé said the DA recently requested the provincial safety MEC to address the lack of patrolling vehicles for the area’s sector policing.

“We will again communicate with the MEC on this issue.”

He said if the rapist was arrested the DA would do everything in its power, including picketing at the bail hearing, to ensure that he was removed from society.

“This rapist should not only be denied bail, he must be locked up for life.” – Sapa