TWO LIFE SENTENCES FOR FATHER WHO EXPLOITED HIS DAUGHTER IN CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OPERATION

30 April 2025

TWO LIFE SENTENCES FOR FATHER WHO EXPLOITED HIS DAUGHTER IN CHILD PORNOGRAPHY OPERATION

The High Court of South Africa, Eastern Cape Division in Gqeberha has sentenced a 56-year-old man to two life terms and an additional 3 713 years imprisonment following his conviction on more than 700 counts relating to rape, sexual assault, sexual grooming, human trafficking, possession, production and procuring of child pornography and exposing children and a person living with mental disability to pornography.

The offences were allegedly committed over a period spanning several years, from 2015 to 2022, primarily at the accused’s home in Jeffreys Bay. The primary complainant, his biological daughter, was first exposed to pornography at the age of ten. As the abuse escalated, she was subjected to repeated sexual exploitation by the accused and adolescent half-brother. The accused not only participated in the abuse but also recorded the acts and directed them. He later distributed the content through digital platforms to unidentified third parties.

Investigations uncovered extensive digital evidence, including thousands of images and videos stored across multiple devices. These included a cellphone, laptop, hard drives, and USB devices containing graphic material involving both known and unknown minors, some as young as toddlers. Children were depicted nude or semi-nude. engaging in sexual acts often under coercion. The exploitation was not limited to the primary complainant; other children in the household were also groomed and abused. In certain instances, the accused instructed his minor son to sell images and videos of the abuse to external clients.

His arrest on 01 September 2022 in Jeffreys Bay was prompted by a report from one of the minor victims, his biological daughter, who disclosed the abuse to a relative.

A broader pattern of systemic exploitation and criminal conduct within the family unit soon emerged. The accused was found to have used his authority and position of trust to manipulate and abuse the minors in his care.

The accused pleaded not guilty.. However, he made certain admissions in terms of Section 220 of the Criminal Procedure Act.

The Senior State Advocate, Ismat Cerfontein, argued that the crimes committed were among the most severe and sustained forms of abuse the court had encountered. She emphasised the premeditated nature of the offences, the deliberate grooming of the victims, and the use of technology to document and distribute the abuse. She submitted that the absence of remorse and the exploitative involvement of other minors demanded the imposition of life sentences.

The court agreed, sentencing the accused to life imprisonment for the rape and sexual exploitation counts with additional lengthy terms for the possession, creation, importation, and distribution of child pornography. The court further ordered that the sentences run concurrently with the life term and that his name be entered into the sexual offenders register and he be declared unfit to possess a firearm.

The Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Barry Madolo, welcomed the sentence, describing it as fitting and necessary in light of the gravity, scope, and impact of the crimes. He praised the bravery of the victims, especially the primary complainant whose disclosure and resilience played a crucial role in bringing the offender to justice. He also commended the efforts of the South African Police Service, Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, and the prosecutorial team for their diligence and dedication throughout the investigation and trial.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of abuse within familial settings and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable children. The National Prosecuting Authority reiterates its commitment to holding perpetrators of such heinous crimes accountable and ensuring that survivors receive the justice and protection they deserve.

Issued by:

Luxolo Tyali
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Eastern Cape Division
Tel: 047 501 2630
Cell: 073 555 9292
Email: ltyali@npa.gov.za
Enquiries: nmakupula@npa.gov.za/0682682473