A dedicated Vryheid detective has secured a life sentence for a man who brutally assaulted a teenage girl, sending a clear message that crimes against children will not be tolerated.

Sentence delivered

Zenzele Derrick Thwala (32) was sentenced on Thursday, by the Nqutu Regional Court to two life terms for rape and attempted rape, plus five years for kidnapping. The case was handled by the Vryheid Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences unit, led by Detective Constable Menzi Xaba.

Details of the attack

SAPS Media Liaison Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo said that the attack took place on March 1, 2023, when two siblings, aged 17 and 19, were walking home. Thwala demanded their cellphones. While the older sibling escaped, the younger was captured. He initially attempted to assault her in an open field, but then forced her to a nearby homestead where he carried out the assault overnight. The victim escaped the following morning.

National Register for Sex Offenders

Ngcobo confirmed that Thwala’s name will now be entered on the National Register for Sex Offenders, reinforcing the commitment to protect children in the community.

Community safety reminders

Police urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, highlighting that law enforcement will continue prioritizing the safety of vulnerable members of the community.

The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.