Man avoids jail time after attempting to rape 12-year-old girl

A 41-YEAR-OLD Keimoes man has been handed a wholly suspended five-year sentence after being found guilty of attempting to rape a 12-year-old girl in a disturbing incident that unfolded in full view of her friends.

Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Omphile Masegela said the attack occurred in December 2022, when the young victim was walking with friends. 

The man was reportedly trailing the group of girls when, without warning, he suddenly grabbed the victim, yanked down her pants, and began undressing himself. Fortunately, one of her friends raised the alarm and the attacker fled the scene before he could carry out the assault.

The girl’s mother was alerted, prompting the police to launch an investigation that led to the swift arrest of the suspect, who was subsequently charged with attempted rape. 

After a protracted legal process, the Kakamas Regional Court delivered its judgment this week, sentencing him to five years behind bars - entirely suspended for the same period.

Although the sentence means the convicted man will avoid jail time unless he reoffends, police authorities in the ZF Mgcawu District have commended Constable Lesego Mokati of the Kakamas SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for his diligent investigation that secured the conviction.

The ruling has reignited debate over sentencing in gender-based violence cases.