30-YEAR PRISON SENTENCE FOR MAN WHO RAPED CHILD LEFT IN HIS CARE

Zeerust, North West – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence of 30 years’ direct imprisonment imposed by the Zeerust Regional Court on Amogelang Motsiane (43) for the rape of his girlfriend’s 13-year-old niece.

The conviction and sentence stem from an incident that occurred on 28 April 2020, when the victim’s aunt left her in the care of Motsiane while she went shopping.

During the aunt’s absence, Motsiane sexually violated and raped the child. The victim later confided in her cousin and disclosed what had happened to her. The matter was subsequently reported to her aunt upon her return.

When confronted about the allegations, Motsiane assaulted the victim for disclosing the abuse. A criminal case was subsequently opened, and he was arrested. He remained in custody throughout the proceedings until the finalisation of the matter.

During sentencing proceedings, State Prosecutor Kagiso Modibedi urged the court to impose the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment. While acknowledging the seriousness of the offence, the court found that substantial and compelling circumstances existed to justify a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence and ultimately sentenced Motsiane to 30 years’ direct imprisonment.

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting children and other vulnerable members of society and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual offences are held accountable. Through the continued expansion of Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) across the country, victims of sexual offences have access to victim-centred, multidisciplinary services aimed at restoring dignity, promoting recovery and supporting access to justice.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West Division, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentence, describing it as a strong affirmation of the criminal justice system’s commitment to protecting children.

“The NPA will continue to pursue justice without fear, favour or prejudice and ensure that those who prey on vulnerable children are held accountable for their actions. Children deserve to be protected, and the criminal justice system must send a clear message that sexual offences against them will not be tolerated,” said Dr Makhari.

Ends

Issued by:

Lindiwe Mabasa

NPA Communication Officer

North West Division