Okahandja:An 18-year-old man was arrested on Saturday after allegedly attempting to abduct and rape a 10-year-old girl in Okahandja.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Senior Inspector Maureen Mbeha of the Namibian Police Force Otjozondjupa Regional Head of Community Affairs reported that the incident took place around 16h00. The victim and another minor were walking from a plot towards the Nau-Aib location when the suspect approached them, attempting to lure them with a N$10 note.

As the 10-year-old girl moved closer to accept the money, the suspect allegedly grabbed her, brandished a knife, and threatened her with harm if she screamed or called for help. The second girl managed to escape and alerted nearby security guards.

The guards responded quickly, finding the suspect in the act of attempting to assault the victim. The suspect fled on foot upon seeing the guards but was chased down and apprehended by them.

The police arrived at the scene, arresting the suspect. They confiscated the knife and N$10 note found in his possession. The suspect is expected to appear in the Okahandja Magistrate's Court this week once charges are formalized, and investigations are ongoing.