The Madadeni Magistrate’s Court sentenced a 25-year-old man to life imprisonment after he was convicted on two counts of rape committed in Osizweni in 2019.

According to National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) KwaZulu-Natal regional spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, the first offence took place on July 31, 2019.

“A minor girl was walking home from a shop with her friend when the accused called her to his homestead before raping her,” said Ramkisson-Kara.

Two days later, on August 2, 2019, the accused again approached the victim and instructed her to come to his homestead.

“Although she attempted to run away, he accosted her and took her to his homestead, where he raped her a second time. On both occasions, the accused threatened to harm her if she reported the incidents,” explained Ramkisson-Kara.

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Victim tells her mother about the attacks

A week later, a neighbour approached the victim’s mother regarding rumours that the child had been raped. The mother and neighbour spoke to the girl, who then disclosed what had happened.

She was taken to the Madadeni Thuthuzela Care Centre for a medical examination and psychosocial support.

She later identified the accused, leading to his arrest.

Court hears evidence from witnesses

During the trial, prosecutor Zama Zikalala led the evidence of the victim; her friend, who witnessed her going to the accused’s homestead; the victim’s mother, who received the first report; and the doctor who examined the complainant.

In aggravation of sentence, the victim’s mother testified about the profound impact the crimes have had on her daughter. She described how the once bubbly and joyful child had become reserved, fearful and distrustful of men, and was now afraid of being alone.

In addition to the life sentence, the accused was declared unfit to possess a firearm and his name was ordered to be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.

“The NPA remains committed to fighting the scourge of sexual violence. This commitment is strengthened by the continued expansion of the Thuthuzela Care Centre model, which has grown from 55 centres in 2020/21 to 66 centres currently.

“These centres provide vital comprehensive services and support to victims of sexual violence, particularly children, who remain among the most vulnerable members of society,” concluded Ramkisson-Kara.

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