By Candice M. Giove

One South African woman has found a way to take a bite out of crime. Literally. Later this month, a barbed female condom called the Rapex will hit shelves in the African nation. With one of the world’s highest per capita rape rates, inventor Sonnett Ehlers developed the fanged latex device to stop sexual attacks and identify the perpetrators. The concave rubber is lined with rows of tiny teeth, which sink into a rapist’s “weapon” upon penetration. Ouch. The clamp-down gives victims a moment to escape—and unmasks rapists, who must have the contraption surgically removed. Although a marvel for many women, the piercing product has its detractors. Some have suggested that the innovation could escalate an already violent crime to a deadly one, while others worry that scorned women could inflict damage on lovers. Many have simply deemed it vengeful savagery. In response to her critics, Ehlers said her invention is “a medieval device for a medieval deed.” No word yet on if or when the Rapex is coming to a Duane Reade near you.