To fight sexual offences and crimes against women and children, a Potchefstroom magistrate sentenced a 28-year-old man to 20 years imprisonment twice in connection with multiple rapes.

The man was charged with raping his sisters, aged 15 and 16, and attempting to rape a cousin (15), in Ikageng Extension 11 and Promosa between 21 and 23 November 2021.

The perpetrator allegedly took his siblings to the bushes in the areas mentioned above over two consecutive days and raped them. He threatened to kill the family members at home if they reported him.

On the third occasion, he allegedly took his cousin to Kanana, where his friend lived, and sent him to buy dagga. The friend came back earlier than expected, only to find the cousin naked. She managed to escape.

The victim reported the matter to a family member, prompting the sisters also to break their silence.
According to the police spokes-person, Sgt Amogelang Malwetse, the case was referred to the Potchefstroom family violence, child protection and sexual offences unit; the suspect was arrested a day later.

The investigator successfully opposed bail, and the suspect was in custody until he made his final court appearance on 12 May 2022. The sentences will run concurrently.