LIMPOPO – A 28-year-old man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the rape of a 12-year-old girl in the Mecklenburg policing area.

The man was convicted following an investigation by the Burgersfort Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit.

How the attack happened

According to court records, the girl was left at her homestead under the care of her uncles on March 2, 2025, while her mother visited her boyfriend.

The following morning, the girl told her mother that the accused had entered the room where she was sleeping during the night after breaking a window.

The court heard that he sexually assaulted her after forcing her to undress.

Investigation and prosecution

The matter was reported to police and investigated by Detective Constable Ramatsobane Mphahlele. The prosecution was led by Mr Selepe.

The accused was found guilty of rape and sentenced to 20 years’ direct imprisonment.

The court also ordered that his name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders in terms of the relevant legislation.

Commissioner commends team

Provincial police commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers commended the investigating officer and prosecution team for securing the conviction, saying Saps remained committed to protecting children and ensuring perpetrators of gender-based violence are brought to justice.