Scelo Bhekisiguno Khumalo was sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment on Thursday in the Ezakheni Regional Court, where he was facing charges of rape.
The rape occurred during 2011 in the Matiwaneskop area of Elandslaagte. The victim, who was 21 at the time, was returning home from a function when the accused, who was known to her, requested her to call a friend on his behalf. She agreed to help and while walking with him, he suddenly pulled out a knife.
He threatened her and took her to his premises, where he kept her overnight, during which time he raped her several times. In the early hours of the following morning, the victim managed to escape and reported the incident to Elandslaagte police.
The 28-year-old suspect was swiftly arrested and charged with rape.
He was brought before court, where bail was granted. While on bail, he absconded and fled the area, not to be seen until last year, when he suddenly returned. He was re-arrested and stood trial for his heinous deeds.
Constable IS Ntshingila from the Ladysmith Family Violence, Child Protection & Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) conducted the investigation and welcomed the stiff sentence.
