Victoria West man sentenced to life for raping ex-girlfriend

THE NORTHERN Cape provincial commissioner, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, expressed satisfaction as she welcomed the life sentence recently handed down to a 32-year-old man from Victoria West for rape.

The man was found guilty of raping his 30-year-old ex-girlfriend in a harrowing incident that unfolded on February 6, 2023.

According to provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant-Colonel Sergio Kock, at 5am on that fateful day, the man forcibly entered the victim’s home, brandishing a knife. He threatened her and then abducted her, taking her to a nearby golf club where he committed the heinous act.

The accused attempted to flee, but law enforcement apprehended him on April 14, 2023. Bail was successfully opposed and he remained in custody until his sentencing on July 30, 2024, in the Colesberg Regional Court.

The court handed down a life imprisonment sentence, ensuring that he would pay for his crime.

In addition to the life sentence, the court also declared the man unfit to possess a firearm and his name will be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.

Detective Sergeant Ilze Fan of the De Aar SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit played a pivotal role in securing justice. Her meticulous investigation led to the outstanding outcome, and Lieutenant-General Otola commended her dedication.

“Gender-based violence (GBVF) remains a priority for the SAPS,” Lieutenant-General Otola emphasised, “and our members will continue to sharpen their responses to crimes committed against the most vulnerable in society.”

The community is urged to remain vigilant. If you see something, say something. Together, we can combat GBVF and protect those who need it most. #EndGBVF