Found guilty of rape, a 37-year-old Ngudwini – part of Eshowe, inland of Mandini – man was handed a life sentence by the Inkanyezi Regional Court on March 19.

According to provincial Saps spokesperson, Captain Nqobile Gwala, the man’s niece (9) had been bathing at a water tap with other children when she was approached by her uncle.

The uncle and his niece made their way toward a local tuck-shop but, before they could reach the shop he dragged her into nearby bushes where she was raped.

A case of rape was opened at the Sundumbili Saps and later transferred to the KwaDukuza Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for investigation which secured the sentence.

The sentence was welcomed by KwaZulu-Natal provincial commissioner, Lieutenant-General Khombinkosi, Jula who said he hoped the sentence would send a clear message that the authorities would do everything within their power to remove sexual predators from society.

Do you want to receive news alerts from The North Coast Courier via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 061 718 4438.

Please read our WhatsApp broadcast list disclaimer. Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram