By Mashamba Media
news@alexreporter.co.za
The Lenyenye Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 29 August 2024 sentenced a 34-year-old man to effective 25 years imprisonment for the rape of his 10-year-old neighbour in Maake policing precinct.
The Court heard that on 07 August 2021, the accused, with the intention of committing a heinous crime, went to the victim’s residence and lured him to accompany him to the outside toilet, where he raped him.
The accused thereafter threatened the victim not to report to anyone. The following day, the accused continued with his heinous crime and repeatedly raped the victim.
The victim disclosed the incident to his grandmother, who became suspicious and immediately reported it to the police in Maake. The perpetrator was arrested on the same date.
The case was assigned to Detective Sergeant Nkakareng Rakgoale of Tzaneen Family, Violence Child Protection and Sexual Offenses Unit, who successfully opposed bail until the accused was sentenced.
“The accused was sentenced to 25 years imprisonment on each count, with the sentences running concurrently ,” said Colonel Malesela Ledwaba .
The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, welcomed the sentence and commended both women, the investigating officer, and from National Prosecuting Authority Advocate Ledwaba
“As we conclude Women’s Month, we acknowledge the efforts of our female investigators in the FCS Unit who continue to make strides to protect women and children, ensuring justice is served. We urge the community to continue reporting such heinous crimes to the authorities and play their role in fighting gender-based violence.”
