TWENTY YEARS’ DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR PLEADING GUILTY TO RAPING A FAMILY MEMBER
04 FEBRUARY 2026
TWENTY YEARS’ DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR PLEADING GUILTY TO RAPING A FAMILY MEMBER
Wilken Cloete (24) has been sentenced to 20 years' direct imprisonment by the Garies Regional Court after he pleaded guilty to a charge of rape. Cloete is accused of raping a 15-year-old family member. The court heard that on 31 October 2024, the victim was watching television at the home of an acquaintance. She was lying on a bed next to the acquaintance’s three-year-old child, who was asleep, when the accused entered the room.
The accused covered the victim’s mouth with her sweater and a top to prevent her from calling for help or screaming, and had sexual intercourse with the victim without her consent. After committing the offence, the accused left the house, leaving the victim behind. The victim subsequently got dressed and informed the complainant, who had been at a neighbour’s house at the time. The South African Police Service was contacted, and the matter was reported. The accused was arrested the following day, on 1 November 2024.
The accused admitted that he had sexual intercourse with the complainant without her consent and further admitted that his actions were unlawful and punishable by law. In sentencing, the court found that there were substantial and compelling circumstances justifying a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment. These included the personal circumstances of the accused and the fact that he is a first-time offender.
In addition to the sentence of 20 years’ direct imprisonment, the court made the following orders: In terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000, the accused is declared unfit to possess a firearm. In terms of Section 50 of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007, the accused’s name is entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders. In terms of Section 120 of the Children’s Act 38 of 2005, the accused is declared unsuitable to work with children. The matter was prosecuted by Regional Court Prosecutor Mr Basil Kock.
The National Prosecuting Authority reiterates its unwavering commitment to combating gender-based violence and protecting the most vulnerable members of society. The NPA emphasises that admissions of guilt do not absolve perpetrators from accountability, and it will continue to ensure that offenders are prosecuted and sentenced appropriately.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539