Stellenbosch - A 25-year-old female student was raped in a bathroom at the Irene women's residence at the University of Stellenbosch in the early hours of Sunday morning.
The suspect apparently gained access to the residence under false pretences after which the Matie student was threatened, sexually assaulted and robbed.
The incident happened at about 05:30.
Stellenbosch police spokesperson Captain René Matthee said the student was doing front door duty by herself.
The man pretended to be a friend of one of the residents.
Held up
The student, whose name may not be mentioned because it was a sexual offence, then let him come into the foyer of the residence.
"He said he was looking for his girlfriend," added Matthee.
The suspect then made the student believe that he had a weapon. She was forced into a bathroom at the residence, where she was raped. Shortly afterwards, he stole her possessions and ran away.
Matthee said the man is still on the run.
University spokesperson Mohamed Shaikh confirmed the incident.
"We learned of this incident with shock. The student immediately reported the incident to the head of the residence who in turn called the US crisis service and risk and protection services (USBD)."
Shaikh said the university had already started its own investigation.
Security cameras
When asked about safety at residences, Shaikh said the university is already at an advanced stage of a comprehensive project to install security cameras, especially at women's residences.
"Although a camera has not been installed at that particular residence yet, the USBD is busy checking recordings of other cameras at strategic points in an attempt to identify the suspect," said Shaikh.
An identikit of the suspect will be made available soon.
Anyone with information about the incident and who can help the police with the investigation can call Detective Constable Varity Moses on 021 8099191 or call CrimeStop on 0860010111.
