MAN SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR BRUTAL RAPE IN POSTMASBURG
30 May 2025
MAN SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR BRUTAL RAPE IN POSTMASBURG
Postmasburg, Northern Cape – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the conviction and 18-year direct imprisonment sentence handed down by the Postmasburg Regional Court to Velile Sannie (33) for the rape of an adult female.
This significant ruling stems from a violent incident on 22 May 2024, reinforcing the NPA’s unwavering commitment to combating gender-based violence (GBV) and ensuring justice for survivors.
On the evening of 22 May 2024, the complainant was enjoying a night out at a local tavern in Postmasburg with two friends when they were joined by Sannie and his companion. The group accepted an invitation to continue socializing at the men’s residence. As the night progressed, the complainant decided to leave, but Sannie aggressively refused, claiming she could not depart after consuming his alcohol. Ignoring her protests, he assaulted her with a belt, beating her across her body in front of others present. Despite attempts by her friends and Sannie’s companion to intervene, his aggression could not be restrained.
After the assault, Sannie ordered the complainant into his bedroom, where, gripped by fear, she complied. It was there that he raped her. The following morning, the traumatized survivor, supported by her friends, reported the incident to the South African Police Service, leading to Sannie’s arrest and a rape charge.
Sannie claimed the sexual intercourse was consensual but failed to provide a coherent explanation under cross-examination.
Regional Court Prosecutor Moloi Motsatse delivered a compelling case, arguing that the preceding assault, intimidation, and refusal to let the complainant leave negated any possibility of valid consent. Court Preparation Officer Kelebogile Mogotsi played a pivotal role, ensuring the State’s witnesses, including the complainant, were well-prepared and emotionally supported throughout the trial.
The court agreed with the prosecution, finding that Sannie formed the intent to rape when he forcibly prevented the complainant’s departure. The complainant’s visible trauma during the trial, crying and shaking, underscored the profound emotional and psychological impact of the crime, further supported by a Victim Impact Statement (VIS) presented during sentencing.
Charged under Section 51(1) of the Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1997, which mandates a minimum sentence of life imprisonment or no less than 10 years for serious offences, Sannie faced rigorous scrutiny. Prosecutor Motsatse argued there were no substantial or compelling circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence, emphasising the crime’s brutality and its devastating effects. The court imposed 18 years of direct imprisonment, reaffirming its zero-tolerance stance against GBV. The prosecutor’s poignant remark during sentencing “If a woman is not killed, she is raped. If she is not raped, she is killed” highlighted the pervasive cycle of violence against women in South Africa.
The NPA commends Prosecutor Moloi Motsatse and Court Preparation Officer Kelebogile Mogotsi for their dedication, which ensured a robust prosecution and supported the survivor through a challenging process. This conviction underscores the NPA’s mission to lead the fight against GBV, protect the dignity of all citizens, and build safer communities where women can live free from fear.
The NPA remains steadfast in upholding the rule of law, prioritising justice for survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable. The NPA urges communities to stand against GBV by reporting incidents promptly and supporting survivors through Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs), which provide medical, psychological, and legal assistance. The courage of the complainant and her friends in reporting this crime highlights the power of collective action in breaking the cycle of violence.
Issued by :
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
MSenokoatsane@npa.gov.za
073 423 3539