Life imprisonment for rapist uncle

Vryheid Regional Court sentenced a 29-year-old man to life imprisonment for the rape of his niece (6).

The crime took place in the KwaJojwana area of Paulpietersburg in August 2023.

The victim lived with her mother and brother in the same homestead as the perpetrator, who cannot be named for the protection of the child’s identity.

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The victim and her brother would often watch TV in the perpetrator’s room.

According to court reports, on the day of the ordeal, the victim and her brother were watching TV in their uncle’s room, while their mother was in the room that she shared with the children.

The perpetrator instructed the victim’s brother to go and practice the traditional music dance at a neighbouring homestead.

Although the boy was reluctant as it was after sunset, the accused told him the dance leader would reprimand him for not attending.

The boy eventually obeyed, leaving the victim alone with the man, who grabbed the victim, undressed her and himself, and raped her, before threatening her at knifepoint if she told anyone.

Afraid, the girl did not immediately disclose what had happened, however, her mother realised what had happened while bathing her the following day.

The matter was reported to the police, and the accused was arrested.

In court, Prosecutor Dibi Symington led the evidence of the victim’s mother, as well as the victim and her brother, who testified through an intermediary.

The man was sentenced to life imprisonment and was declared unfit to possess a firearm. The court also ordered that his name be listed in the National Register for Sex Offenders.

KZN NPA regional spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara said this sentence underscores the seriousness with which the justice system views sexual offences.

“We remain resolute in our pursuit of justice for victims of child abuse.

“We commend the prosecution on making compelling arguments to ensure the accused is sentenced to life imprisonment,” she said.

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