By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI
1 August 2026- Two men from Kakamas were sentenced to five years imprisonment by the Upington Regional Court for rape. The duo raped a woman (32) in Keimoes.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe said on 5 April 2025, Howard Mentoor (31) and Edwin Oortman (29), unlawfully entered the residence of the victim’s uncle at approximately 6am, while the occupants were asleep. Litabe said the accused threatened the victim’s uncle with a knife, searched him and demanded money.
“During the incident, the victim attempted to leave the house, but was prevented from doing so. The two men then sexually assaulted her before fleeing the scene.
“The matter was immediately reported to the police and a rape case was registered for investigation. Detective Constable Claudine Esau of the Kakamas Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit conducted a thorough investigation that resulted in the swift arrest of both accused” he said.
Litabe further said Mentoor and Oortman were remanded in custody throughout the court proceedings until their conviction and sentencing. He added that, they were also sentenced to the additional five-year imprisonment each.
“The court declared both offenders unfit to possess firearms,” he said.
Meanwhile, the ZF Mgcawu District Police Commissioner, Major General Monica Sebili, commended Detective Constable Claudine Esau for her professionalism, commitment and diligent investigation, which culminated in the successful prosecution of the perpetrators. Sebolai said the SAPS remains steadfast in its commitment to investigating crimes of gender-based violence (GBV) and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice, while providing continued support to victims of these heinous offences.
The Guardian 