Paul Kirk
A top official in the Department of Home Affairs and one of Minister Mangosuthu Buthelezi’s closest aides has been raped in her Ulundi home.
The official, who has asked not to be identified, was surprised in her home by a single attacker who, after severely assaulting her and tying her up, raped her over a period of hours. Her cries for help were not heard: her home is in a secluded spot and she was alone when the intruder arrived.
The official, who is in her 60s, was discovered the following morning with extensive injuries and wounds from her ordeal.
The home where the attack took place about five weeks ago is one of several residences in Ulundi that had been used by ministers of the KwaZulu homeland. Because these homes were previously guarded by the KwaZulu police, they have had little in the way of security measures installed.
Ulundi police declined to comment on the matter, saying the investigation was at a sensitive stage and any information they gave could harm their case. They confirmed the attack and said their crime prevention unit had increased patrols in the area.
Inkatha Freedom Party officials declined to comment, saying it was a deeply personal matter. The victim is currently undergoing medical treatment at a private hospital.
The Mail & Guardian was referred to IFP national representative, the Reverend Musa Zondi, for comment. He was in a meeting at the time of going to press and could not be reached.