FREE STATE. – The Bethlehem Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, in collaboration with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), secured the conviction and sentencing of a 69-year-old man from Petsana near Reitz on Wednesday.

The pensioner was sentenced to 25 years’ direct imprisonment for the rape of his 14-year-old granddaughter.

The Free State Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thabang Lesia, welcomed the sentence and commended the SAPS investigating team and the National Prosecuting Authority for their efforts in ensuring that justice was served.

The sentence sends a clear message that perpetrators of gender-based violence and crimes against children.

The Provincial Commissioner emphasised that the sentence comes as the country prepares to observe the annual 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children campaign, which runs from 25 November to 10 December.

He reiterated that the sentence sends a clear message that perpetrators of gender-based violence and crimes against children will be held accountable for their actions.

“Men must stop abusing women and children. Protecting women and children is everyone’s responsibility, and perpetrators must understand that their actions have serious consequences,” Lieutenant General Lesia said.

The case was investigated by Detective Sergeant Gene Kutuloane of the Bethlehem FCS Unit and prosecuted by Advocate Babalwa Twalo before Magistrate Mpama.