By OBAKENG MAJE
1 June 2025- A man (32) was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment by the Postmasburg Regional Court for rape. On 23 May 2024, a woman (29) and her friends were at a local drinking establishment when the accused approached them, offered to buy them alcohol and suggested that they go and drink at his place.
The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said they all went together to the accused’s place and slept on one bed. Masegela said during the night, the accused, Velile Sannie, started to touch the victim and when she resisted, he assaulted her with a belt.
“The victim succumbed to the accused, who then raped her. She reported the incident to the police the following day and the accused was subsequently arrested.
“Sannie was convicted for rape and sentenced to 18 years imprisonment and was declared and unfit to possess a firearm and his name will be entered in the National Register of sex offenders,” she said.
Masegela further said the collaboration between the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is appreciated and welcomed in this joint quest to serve justice. She added that the FCS detectives remain committed and dedicated in ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.
“The meticulous investigation by Constable Boitshepo Bele attached to the Family Violence Child Protection in Sexual Offences Unit in Postmasburg was lauded by the District Commissioner of ZF Mgcawu, Major General Monica Sebili for the lengthy sentence in justice of a rape victim,” said Masegela.
The Guardian 