Upington child rapist who lured boys with cellphone games jailed for 18 years
An Upington child rapist who lured young boys with cellphone games has been sentenced to 18 years in prison.
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THE UPINGTON Regional Court has convicted and sentenced a 37-year-old man to 18 years’ direct imprisonment for committing multiple sexual offences against four young boys.
Nico Buys was found guilty of two counts of rape, one count of attempted rape and one count of sexual assault for offences committed between 2021 and 2022 involving children aged eight to 10.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Northern Cape spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane said State prosecutor Mzukisi Twani led the testimony of 10 witnesses during the trial, including the four minor children, who testified through an intermediary to minimise trauma.
“The boys described how Buys lured them to his house in Paballelo, Upington, by offering his cellphone to play games before sexually exploiting them. The offences came to light when an uncle of one of the boys overheard the children discussing what had happened. He immediately informed the parents, who reported the matter to the police. Buys was arrested on October 21, 2022, and remained in custody after the State successfully opposed bail,” said Senokoatsane.
He added that the court noted the long-term social, emotional and psychological impact the offences had on the young victims.
“After hearing extensive evidence, the court convicted him on two counts of rape, one count of attempted rape and one count of sexual assault, and sentenced him to 18 years’ imprisonment. His details will also be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.
“The NPA commends the bravery of the young children who testified against their abuser and acknowledges the vital support provided by court preparation officers in safeguarding the vulnerable boys.
“This sentence sends a clear message that crimes against children will not be tolerated. Sexual violence robs victims of their dignity and privacy — rights enshrined in our Constitution — and the NPA will continue to prosecute such cases vigorously,” Senokoatsane concluded.