HUSBAND SENTENCED TO 27 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE AND ASSAULT OF HIS WIFE
01 August 2025
HUSBAND SENTENCED TO 27 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE AND ASSAULT OF HIS WIFE
Groblershoop, Northern Cape – The Groblershoop Regional Court has sentenced a 49-year-old man to an effective 27 years of direct imprisonment for the rape and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) of his wife.
The crimes were committed in June 2024 at the couple’s home in Grootdrink, near Groblershoop. On the evening of 29 June 2024, the complainant, who had been married to the accused for a decade, refused his sexual advances, citing their deteriorating relationship and ongoing verbal abuse. In response, the accused became violent, threatening her with a knife, which broke during a struggle. He then continued to threaten her with a pickaxe handle. In an attempt to calm the situation, the complainant made coffee for them. However, after again refusing his advances, the accused forcibly undressed and raped her, stating that he would commit the act "even if it meant going to jail." The following day, while visiting her parental home, the accused attacked her again, this time stabbing her with a knife. He inflicted injuries to her finger and mouth and later stabbed her in the head as she tried to escape. The victim required nine stitches for the head injury. Her father attempted to intervene but was also threatened by the accused. She managed to escape and disclosed the rape to her cousin, who helped report the matter.
The accused pleaded not guilty, forcing the State to prove its case. However, under intense cross-examination by Prosecutor Friedle du Plessis, the accused conceded to both the rape and stabbing. Before the trial, Court Preparation Officer (CPO) Ashley Groenewald provided vital support to the complainant and other witnesses. Groenewald also assisted the complainant in drafting a Victim Impact Statement (VIS), which was presented during sentencing. In the VIS, the victim described the psychological trauma she endured, feelings of betrayal, emotional devastation, and suicidal thoughts, but also expressed her resolve to rebuild her life for the sake of her children. The accused was sentenced as follows:20 years’ imprisonment for rape, and 7 years’ imprisonment for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The sentences will run consecutively, resulting in a total of 27 years of direct imprisonment.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Northern Cape, through Upington Cluster Chief Prosecutor Armando Damarah, welcomes the conviction and sentencing. Damarah expressed sincere appreciation to Prosecutor du Plessis and CPO Groenewald for their professionalism, diligence, and compassionate approach in handling the matter. Their efforts underscore the NPA’s commitment to tackling Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and ensuring that victims are heard, protected, and empowered. Rape is a serious crime, regardless of the relationship between the perpetrator and the victim. Consent is not automatic in marriage or any relationship. Every person has the right to bodily autonomy, dignity, and safety rights fully protected by our Constitution,” said Damarah.
The NPA remains steadfast in its mission to uphold the rule of law and deliver justice to victims of sexual violence. Crimes committed within intimate or domestic spaces will be prosecuted with the same seriousness as any other offence. No one is above the law, and no victim is without recourse.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539