Northern Cape teen sentenced for raping five-year-old boy

THE KIMBERLEY Regional Court has sentenced a 15-year-old boy to five years of compulsory detention at a youth and child-care centre, followed by a further three years’ imprisonment, after convicting him of raping a five-year-old boy.

The sentencing follows an incident that occurred on December 18 last year at Longlands near Delportshoop, where the teen raped a five-year-old boy in the bathroom of his parents’ home.

After the assault, the victim returned home and experienced difficulty sitting. His aunt noticed his discomfort and questioned him, whereupon he broke down and revealed what had happened.

The incident was immediately reported to the police, and the victim was taken to the hospital for a medical examination.

The suspect was subsequently arrested on December 20, 2024, and processed in accordance with the Child Justice Act.

Following his first court appearance on December 23, 2024, he was detained at a place of safety for juveniles in Kimberley and later abandoned his right to apply for bail.

The Frances Baard District SAPS management has publicly commended Constable Patience Fortuin from the Galeshewe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for her diligent and comprehensive investigation, which significantly contributed to the successful conviction and sentencing of the accused.

The SAPS has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every child, and urged the community to be vigilant and proactive in reporting any form of abuse. With a national aim to protect vulnerable children, citizens are reminded that they can confidentially reach out to the following resources for assistance:

• SAPS Crime Stop: 08600 10111
• GBVF Command Centre: 0800 428 428
• Childline: 116
• Human Trafficking Hotline: 0800 222 777