Northern Cape man gets life for horrific rape and abuse of girlfriend's young children

A 40-YEAR-OLD man from Loeriesfontein has been handed multiple life sentences by the Calvinia Regional Court, bringing a measure of justice to a horrific case of child sexual assault and physical abuse. 

Northern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Timothy Sam said that the sentencing, which includes life imprisonment for each of the five counts of rape and an additional 20 years for two counts of assault, was met with strong approval from Northern Cape provincial commissioner Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola and her management team.

The shocking details of the abuse came to light on October 26, 2022, when authorities were alerted to the prolonged suffering of three young siblings. Investigations revealed that the perpetrator, the boyfriend of the children's mother, had subjected his girlfriend's daughters, aged four and 11, to repeated sexual assault, while their nine-year-old brother endured multiple physical attacks.

The children had previously been removed from their parental home in Loeriesfontein due to an unstable and unsafe environment. It was their foster guardian who first noticed the distress of the youngest victim, a four-year-old girl, who struggled with sleep and frequently cried out during the night. Her revelations to her guardian prompted immediate action.

The matter was reported to a social worker, who arranged for professional counselling and support. It was during these sessions that the full extent of the sexual abuse inflicted by her mother's boyfriend was uncovered. Police were subsequently informed, leading to the registration of a rape case. 

As the “meticulous investigation” by Detective Warrant Officer David Matthys unfolded, it was tragically discovered that the 11-year-old sister had also been a victim of the same individual, and their nine-year-old brother had been physically assaulted on numerous occasions.

The suspect was arrested and faced charges related to the rape of the two sisters and the assault of their brother. In addition to the severe prison terms, the court declared the accused unfit to possess a firearm and ordered his name to be permanently recorded in the National Register for Sex Offenders.

Lieutenant-General Otola lauded the dedicated efforts of the prosecution, led by Advocate Bramskop, and the investigating team. She emphasised that their thorough work was instrumental in securing the lifelong incarceration of the accused. 

The commissioner also extended her appreciation to the social workers for their crucial psychological support to the victims, highlighting the vital inter-sectoral collaboration in the ongoing fight against gender-based violence and femicide. She reiterated the police's commitment to strengthening partnerships to protect vulnerable children and ensure justice is served.

Sergeant Sam said that the police continue to encourage public vigilance and participation in reporting criminal behaviour, urging citizens to use the MySAPS app or call 08600 10111 to report any suspicious activities.