A 12-year-old girl was allegedly raped by an unknown man wearing a mask on her way home from school on Friday, the Namibian Police Force in the Oshikoto Region reported.

According to Oshikoto Regional Commander, Commissioner Theopoline Kalompo-Nashikaku, the incident was brought to the attention of the police on Tuesday. It happened on Friday around 13:00 near the Oshigambo cemetery in the Oniipa Constituency, she said.

“It is alleged that the victim was on her way back home from school when she found an unknown male person near the cemetery sitting under a tree who started calling her,” said Kalompo-Nashikaku.

The victim started running away, and the suspect chased her while carrying a traditional knife (Omukonda) in his hand.

“The victim eventually stopped and surrendered herself to the suspect, who took her by force and tied her hands with a rope, undressed her, and had sexual intercourse with the victim under coercive circumstances,” Kalompo-Nashikaku said.

She said the victim went home after being released by the suspect, who warned her not to tell anyone about the incident. The victim on Tuesday informed a cousin who took her to the police station and opened a case.

Kalompo-Nashikaku said the victim is a Grade 7 learner and no arrest has been made as the suspect is unknown by the victim since he wore a mask, but investigations continue.

The commissioner meanwhile appealed to learners to walk in groups when going to and coming from school for safety.