rewrite this title Cape teen rescued from Durban sex traffickers

IN A DISTURBING incident, a teenager from Manenberg has been freed from a harrowing experience of sex trafficking.

The nightmare began when the 18-year-old’s alleged captors and assaulters, reportedly Pakistani nationals, lured her to Durban with false promises of friendship via an Instagram account.

After being persuaded to take an e-hailing service to Cape Town International Airport, the girl, who has special needs, boarded a flight to Durban, unknowingly entering a perilous situation that would result in her assault.

Police have stated that a rape case has been filed for investigation, and additional charges are likely to follow.

They also noted that the young woman was taken to Gqeberha, where she suffered further assault.

Police spokesperson, Constable Ndakhe Gwala, stated: “This office can confirm that a case of rape has been opened at the Manenberg SAPS.

“The case will be forwarded to Gqeberha for further investigation where the incident took place.

Manenberg SAPS was alerted by the teen’s worried parents after the abductors deceived her into leaving home.

With their help, the teen was located in Durban and rescued last week.

Tragically, upon her arrival, she was assaulted.

The Cape Argus has reached out to the teen’s parents for a statement; they mentioned conducting their own inquiry that led to their child’s recovery but chose not to comment further.

Manenberg Police Station Commander, Brigadier Jayce Naidoo, remarked that this case highlights the dangers of social media.

Naidoo also mentioned that the investigation will look into the potential involvement of women in this case.

“Recently, an 18-year-old girl with special needs was picked up by an Uber in Manenberg, taken to the airport, and boarded a flight to Durban, all facilitated through social media,” he said.

“There are numerous questions to consider. Many would blame the victim.

“But what if this were to happen to your child?

“It ended very sadly, as before we could bring her home, she was assaulted.

“The police will be looking into a case of rape, and further charges may be added as the investigation progresses.

“The suspects include women who have participated in these schemes. Be cautious.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact Manenberg SAPS at 021 699 9000 or Crime Stop at 0860 010 111.