Relatives of a teenage girl who was abducted, kept hostage, and repeatedly sexually assaulted on Wednesday night expressed gratitude for her safe return following her harrowing ordeal.
In a statement the family said they are thankful to God for guiding her back to them. They said her courage and quick thinking – using a tablet that was deemed not working, creating a social media account, and reaching out to a friend, were instrumental in her rescue. Her strength and resourcefulness have inspired them beyond measure.
The family also expressed heartfelt thanks to several officers at the Sparendaam Police Station for their swift and effective work in apprehending the suspect, a person known to the family and was employed at the Sparendaam Police as a caretaker.
They also expressed gratitude to the social media community who were instrumental in sharing her story and raising awareness across the country – your strength gave our family hope when we needed it most.
The family said as they focus on the teenager’s healing, they remain steadfast in prayer for the safety of all children. No child should ever endure what she has survived.
According to the family, they are now placing their trust in the justice system and look forward to a swift and just resolution.
The teenager was missing for just over a week.