Manzini – A 35-year-old kombi driver from Madonsa appeared before the Manzini Magistrate Court today on charges relating to the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl from Ngwane Park.
The arrest, made by the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), follows an incident that reportedly occurred yesterday, November 18, 2025, around 11:00 AM, in the Fairview township.
According to police accounts, the suspect allegedly made an unwelcome romantic proposal to the young girl while she was a passenger traveling to school in his vehicle. He then reportedly convinced her to skip school and proceeded to take the child to a friend’s house in Fairview.
The alarming situation prompted a vigilant Fairview resident to act. The resident, who observed the suspect walking with the minor into the house, quickly alerted the REPS. Police units responded immediately, surrounded the premises, and successfully apprehended the suspect on the spot. 
The swift action of the community member proved crucial in securing the arrest and safeguarding the child. The REPS has since commended the community’s vigilance, stressing that such observation and quick action are vital in protecting children from predatory behaviour.
The police service restated its firm commitment to tackling Gender Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) with intensity across the Kingdom.
The suspect remains in custody pending the next stage of the judicial process.
