Kimberley man sentenced to life for rape and robbery
A Kimberley man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for raping and robbing a young woman in 2020, after forensic evidence linked him to the attack.
Image: File
A 22-YEAR-old Kimberley man, Lebogang Joseph van Wyk, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for rape and robbery.
The incident occurred on August 8, 2020, when a 20-year-old woman was attacked while walking home alone. The accused dragged the victim behind the Kimberley Correctional Services premises, demanded her cellphone, took her handbag, and sexually assaulted her.
The victim's bravery in reporting the incident immediately after it occurred and her co-operation with the police led to the recovery of her cellphone and subsequent forensic evidence that linked the accused to the crime scene.
The Kimberley Regional Court sentenced Van Wyk to life imprisonment for rape and 15 years' imprisonment for common robbery on October 30. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm, and his name will be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.
The provincial commissioner of the Northern Cape, Lieutenant-General Koliswa Otola, commended the investigating officer and the National Prosecuting Authority for their dedication to ensuring justice for the victim.
Lieutenant-General Otola also reiterated the SAPS's commitment to eradicating gender-based violence and urged community members to prioritise their personal safety.