Serial rapist to appear in court tomorrow

By Tando Mfengwana
05 March 2007

Police are requesting the assistance of the public in finding Katriena Davids who they believe may be able to assist in the investigation into Johannes Mowers.

Mowers, 31, had eluded police for some time, and was arrested at about 05H30 this morning, following a tip off from the public. Prior to his arrest, it is alleged that Mowers burgled a near-by house, in the Hernelop-Aarde Valley in Harmanus.

Police spokesperson Inspector Bernadine Steyn says that Mowers might be linked to more cases.

Mowers is believed to be linked to 21 cases that vary from rape and abduction to housebreaking and theft.

Steyn says anyone who may have fallen victim to the suspect, is requested to come forward and report the incident to the nearest police station.

After his arrest, Mowers pointed out a 4-year-old girl, whom he claimed to be his daughter.

A 14-year-old girl, who he allegedly abducted during December 2005 on Diepgat, was also found.

The girls were both found in an underground 2 by 3 metre hole on a river bank on Majeane farm.

Mowers is expected to appear in the Caledon Magistrate court tomorrow.

Police suspect that Katriena Davids had previously leaved in Hermanus and has a family in the area of Sutherland.

Anyone with information concerning the whereabouts of Davids can contact Director Jeremy Veary on 082 559 4661.