Police arrest man for filming young girls and spraying them with a suspicious substance

IN A concerning development for parents and shoppers alike, the Sexual and Electronic Crimes Unit (SECU) has apprehended a 33-year-old male of Asian origin in connection with multiple incidents at Bloemfontein malls.

The suspect was found in possession of child sexual abuse material, following allegations that he had been targeting young girls by spraying them with a foul-smelling substance as he walked behind them.

The reports surfaced when parents began noticing a suspicious figure lurking around their children while at various shopping centres. Witnesses claimed that the man would approach unsuspecting young girls, spray them with the unidentified substance, and then swiftly make his escape. Alarmed community members brought their concerns to the attention of the authorities, which prompted an intensive investigation.

Police, in collaboration with mall security personnel, launched a coordinated effort to monitor and identify the suspect. This successful operation bore fruit when Captain Bez Bezuidenhout of the SECU apprehended the alleged perpetrator.

During the arrest, law enforcement officials seized a syringe designed for animals, raising further suspicion about the suspect's intentions and activities.

The accused appeared in the Bloemfontein magistrate's court on January 9, where charges related to the possession of child sexual abuse material, alongside other serious offences, were formally laid against him. He is scheduled to return to court on January 14, as the investigation continues.

Authorities urge any parents who suspect their children may have been victims of this distressing behaviour to come forward. Statements can be given at local police stations, via Crime Stop at 08600 10111, or through the MySAPS App. Additionally, Captain Bez Bezuidenhout is available for direct contact at 071 331 8822 for those wishing to provide information confidentially.