Another rapist is behind bars, thanks to the Dundee Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS).
Ayanda Zacharia Mkhize (25) was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment in Dundee Regional Court after he was found guilty of the rape of a female farmworker in Helpmekaar.
In November 2012, Ayanda forcefully entered the house of the victim.
She initially tried to escape but fell down while running, allowing him to drag her back into the house.
Brandishing a knife, he forced her to cook for him.
She complied and pretended, for the duration of the long night, to be in love with him while he repeatedly raped her.
She did this to escape further harm.
The victim reported the matter to her employer after the culprit left, and the Helpmekaar SAPS were called in to assist.
A case of rape was opened and the case was handed over to Dundee FCS Unit for investigation
Sufficient evidence was left behind by the accused, such as the knife he had used to threaten the victim with, and fingerprints on the dishes he ate out of.
The victim identified him by his voice, build, the clothing he wore, and the little bit she saw of him during the night, as there was only candle-light burning and the suspect had his face covered with plastic.
On October 31 he was sentenced to 15 years’ imprisonment.
The Dundee FCS Unit commended the victim for keeping her wits about her during the frightening experience.
The FCS also commends the female investigating officer, Constable NGP Buthelezi, for her dedication and perseverance throughout the investigation and trial.
