Limpopo police have launched a manhunt for a 19-year-old man accused of raping a 12-year-old girl in Finale village, outside Hoedspruit.
Police spokesperson Malesela Ledwaba says the incident came to light on Tuesday after the girl's grandmother noticed that the child was missing from home and alerted her mother.
Ledwaba says the suspect allegedly took the girl to his residence, where he sexually assaulted her before fleeing the scene.
The case has since been transferred to the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Phalaborwa.
Detectives are working to locate and arrest the suspect.
Police are appealing to anyone with information that could assist in the investigation to contact investigating officer Sergeant Andries Malatjie on 071 355 0556.
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.