By STAFF REPORTER
15 February 2026 – The accused, Elrico Bradley Leroy Hartebees (30) of Niekerkshoop in the Northern Cape will spend 15 years behind bars after he was recently found guilty of rape by the Griekwastad Regional Court. On 24 November 2023, the victim was on her way to visit her boyfriend when she was suddenly attacked from behind by an unknown man.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said the victim screamed for help as the accused allegedly pushed her to the ground. Litabe said she subsequently lost consciousness and was raped.
“Two passersby heard the victim’s cries for help and rushed to the scene, where they intervened and came to her rescue. Upon their arrival, they identified the accused and immediately notified the police.
“A case of rape was registered at the Niekerkshoop Police Station for further investigation. The matter was allocated to Detective Constable Dineo Mogaladi of the Prieska Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit,” he said.
Litabe further said following the victim’s medical examination, Hartebees was arrested. He added that the accused appeared in court on several occasions, where he pleaded not guilty to the charge.
“After thorough investigations conducted by Detective Constable Mogaladi and compelling testimony presented by the complainant and the two witnesses, the court found him guilty as charged.
“The court subsequently sentenced the accused to 15 years’ imprisonment and declared him unfit to possess a firearm,” said Litabe.
The Pixley ka Seme District Police Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, commended Detective Constable Mogaladi and the Prosecutor, for their dedication and professionalism, which led to the successful prosecution of the case.
The Guardian 