By BAKANG MOKOTO
7 August 2025 – The Hopetown Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit said it has successfully secured convictions in cases related to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). The unit said in the first case which occurred on 24 February 2025, Lorenzo Kani (27) assaulted and attempted to stab his girlfriend (25) in the presence of his sister (47) in Hopetown.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the sister immediately reported the matter to the police. Kock said the accused pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three years imprisonment for contravening a protection order and assault common.
“He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm. In a separate incident on 13 May 2025, Beronique Olyn (23) displayed riotous and aggressive behaviour towards her parents and child in Hopetown.
“She was arrested for contravening a protection order and appeared in the Hopetown Magistrate’s Court. Olyn was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, wholly suspended for five years. She was declared unfit to possess a firearm,” he said.
Kock further said the SAPS Management has commended Detective Warrant Officer Paul Schoeman and Sergeant Frans Louw, for their commitment and thorough investigation, which, together with the collaboration of state prosecutor advocate Nicola van Niekerk, led to the successful prosecution and sentencing of the accused. He added that their efforts underscore SAPS’ unwavering dedication to combating GBVF and ensuring justice for victims.
The Guardian 