Mhlaba Memela

Mhlaba Memela

Police have launched a manhunt for an intruder after a KwaZulu-Natal pensioner was repeatedly raped and robbed of her belongings at her home.

A 74-year-old woman, who lives alone in Scottburgh on the South Coast was asleep on Monday when a man gained access into her house through a balcony window. Captain Vincent Pandarum said the man allegedly used a ladder to reach the balcony.

"The pensioner was asleep when the suspect entered her house through a balcony window and forced the burglar guard bars apart," he said.

Pandarum said: "The intruder switched the lights on, assaulted the victim, threatened to kill her and forced her to undress. He raped her until she lost consciousness. When she regained consciousness, she found her belongings strewn across the floor and also discovered that money, a bank card and cell-phone had been stolen," he said.

The grandmother was taken to GJ Crookes Hospital because she suffered serious injuries Pandurum added. He said a case of rape and robbery is being investigated. Pandurum appealed to the community, who may help police in their investigations, to contact Detective Inspector Yugen Moodley on 039-9781900.

Meanwhile, police are searching for men who allegedly robbed Zodwa Cele, 36, at Umzinto's Umbelibeli Farm in February. It's alleged that Cele was walking home when she was robbed by two unknown men. He said Cele's purse containing a large amount of money and other personal belongings were stolen. Pandurum appealed to anyone with information to contact police on 039-974-1151 or 083-4022-381.