MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR RAPE AND ASSAULT OF HIS PARTNER
29 October 2025
MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR RAPE AND ASSAULT OF HIS PARTNER
Gqeberha – The Gqeberha Regional Court has sentenced Bheki Laduma (40) to life imprisonment on two counts of rape and 10 years’ imprisonment for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. His name will be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders, and he has been declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The 35-year-old victim, who was in a romantic relationship with the accused, lived with him at his home in Airport Valley, Walmer. On 7 July 2024, after consuming alcohol together, the victim asked permission to attend a traditional ceremony. Laduma became enraged and attacked her, biting her on the forehead and mouth, kicking, and punching her in the face, causing serious injuries that left her unable to walk.
He then threw a bucket of urine over her because she was bleeding and proceeded to rape her. The following morning, the assault continued when he raped her again before leaving the house. Neighbours, alerted by her cries, found her naked, bleeding, and severely injured. They contacted the police, leading to the accused’s arrest on the same day.
During the trial, Laduma denied the charges of rape, claiming the victim had provoked him, though he admitted to the assault. Regional Court Prosecutor, Advocate Kenny van Biljon, led compelling evidence from the victim, her neighbours, and a forensic nurse from the Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC) who examined the complainant. The court found the accused guilty on all charges, satisfied that the evidence proved his guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
In aggravation of the sentence, the prosecution emphasised the brutality and humiliation of the attack, the sustained injuries, and the fact that the abuse occurred over two days. Despite being a first-time offender, the court found that the gravity of the crimes warranted the imposition of the prescribed sentences.
Welcoming the sentence, Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Barry Madolo, commended the prosecution team, the police, and the TCC for their professionalism and diligence.
“This case underscores the NPA’s commitment to addressing gender-based violence and domestic abuse. The severity of the injuries and the circumstances of this case reflect the brutal reality faced by many victims. We will continue to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and removed from our communities,” said Mr Madolo.
The NPA remains steadfast in its mission to protect victims and pursue justice for all survivors of gender-based violence.
Issued by:
Luxolo Tyali
Regional Spokesperson – Eastern Cape Division
National Prosecuting Authority
Tel: 047 501 2630
Email: ltyali@npa.gov.za
Enquiries: nmakupula@npa.gov.za / 068 268 2473