UNCLE SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE OF 10-YEAR-OLD NIECE

24 November 2025

UNCLE SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE OF 10-YEAR-OLD NIECE

The Sterkspruit Regional Court has sentenced a 43-year-old man to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of raping his then 10-year-old niece. On or about October 2023, the victim had returned home from soccer practice and was watching television when her uncle arrived at her homestead. He proceeded to his rondavel, located in the same yard, and called the child to come to him. When she entered, the uncle, who was under the influence of alcohol, asked her to engage in sexual intercourse. The child refused. The uncle then overpowered her, forcibly pulled her onto the bed, undressed her, and undressed himself. He proceeded to rape her before threatening to kill or banish her from home if she told anyone what had happened. That night, the child became ill, experiencing stomach cramps and vomiting. Her mother was called and administered medication. Days later, her mother noticed that the child was limping. When asked, the child did not respond, still fearful of her uncle’s threats. A week later, she was taken to the local clinic, where a nurse informed her mother that the child had been sexually penetrated. However, due to fear, the victim still did not disclose the perpetrator. Truth came to light when a neighbour, concerned about the child’s condition, gently questioned her. The child then disclosed the full ordeal. A case was subsequently opened, leading to the arrest of the uncle.

During the trial, the accused offered a bare denial, claiming that he had not raped the child. The State led evidence from the victim through the services of an intermediary, the child’s mother, the J88 form, as well as the doctor who examined the child. Prosecutor Anele Magibile argued that the accused had abused a position of trust and authority over the child, and that the psychological, physical, and emotional harm inflicted on such a young victim called for the severest punishment permissible. Magibile emphasised that the accused’s lack of remorse, the brutality of the assault, and the threats made to silence the child demonstrated that he posed a continued danger to vulnerable children in the community. He submitted that only a life sentence would reflect the seriousness of the offence and meet the interests of justice. The court agreed with the State, convicting the accused of rape and imposing a life sentence.

Welcoming the sentence, Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Barry Madolo, said: “This judgment reinforces the NPA’s unwavering commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society. Crimes of sexual violence against children are a direct attack on their dignity and future. We will continue to ensure that perpetrators of such heinous offences are held fully accountable and face the full might of the law.” The NPA further acknowledges the dedication of all those who contributed to securing this conviction.

Court Preparation Officer Fundiswa Mxawuka-Soni ensured that the child was adequately prepared for the ordeal of testifying, while her testimony was compassionately facilitated through Intermediary Gcobisa Mphakathi. The State also commends Investigation Officer Songezo Simelane for his thorough and diligent investigation, which played a crucial role in building a strong and credible case against the accused. The NPA commends the victim for her courage, the investigating officers for their diligence, and the prosecution team for securing a conviction that ensures justice for the child.

Issued by:

Luxolo Tyali

Regional Spokesperson 

Eastern Cape Division

National Prosecuting Authority

Tel: 047 501 2630

Email: ltyali@npa.gov.za