A 34-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and five years for kidnapping in the Madadeni Regional Court.

Lizzy Arumugam of the Newcastle SAPS Corporate Communications Department said the incident occurred on June 15, 2019.

“The victim was returning home from work when she encountered four men. One of the men grabbed her and took her to his residence, where he raped her,” commented Arumugam.

DNA evidence links man to rape

The suspect was later linked to the crime through DNA evidence.

However, he was formally charged while already in custody for another crime.

“Sergeant Mthimkhulu’s thorough investigation proved instrumental in securing the conviction and bringing the perpetrator to justice,” said Arumugam.

Family Violence, Child Protection & Sexual Offences Unit commander, Lieutenant Colonel SL Chapi, commended Mthimkhulu for his dedication and professionalism. “The outcome demonstrates the South African Police Service’s ongoing commitment to protecting communities,” said Chapi.

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