UPINGTON MAN SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST CHILDREN
03 October 2025
UPINGTON MAN SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES AGAINST CHILDREN
Upington, Northern Cape – The Upington Regional Court has sentenced Nico Buys (37) to 18 years’ direct imprisonment for multiple sexual offences committed against four young boys, aged between 8 and 10, during 2021 and 2022. Buys was initially charged with four counts of rape and three counts of sexual assault. After hearing extensive evidence, the court convicted him on two counts of rape, one count of attempted rape, and one count of sexual assault. His details will also be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.
During the trial, State Prosecutor Mzukisi Twani led the testimony of 10 witnesses, including the four child victims, who testified through an intermediary to minimise trauma. The children described how Buys lured them to his house in Paballelo, Upington, by offering his cellphone to play games before sexually exploiting them. The offences came to light when the uncle of one of the victims overheard the children discussing what had happened. He immediately informed the parents, who reported the matter to the police. Buys was arrested on 21 October 2022 and remained in custody after the State successfully opposed bail.
The court acknowledged the role of Court Preparation Officer, Ashley Groenewald, who worked closely with the victims and their families to prepare them for trial and reduce the risk of secondary trauma. Despite these efforts, the court noted the emotional toll on the young complainants, who often required breaks during testimony.
In sentencing, the court considered Victim Impact Statements highlighting the long-term psychological and social harm suffered by the children. While the court found substantial and compelling circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentences, it imposed an effective 18-year term of direct imprisonment.
The NPA commends the bravery of the young victims in testifying against their abuser and acknowledges the vital support provided by Court Preparation Officers in safeguarding vulnerable victims. This sentence sends a clear message that crimes against children will not be tolerated. Sexual violence robs victims of their dignity and privacy, rights enshrined in our Constitution, and the NPA will continue to prosecute such cases vigorously.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539