EASTERN CAPE – A 37-year-old man has been sentenced to two life terms of imprisonment by the Bityi Regional Court after being convicted of raping his 12-year-old biological daughter on two occasions.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the first incident occurred on 1 January 2024, when the child visited her father’s outside structure with her twin sister to play games on his cellphone. After her sister left, the father raped her.
The second incident occurred on 2 June 2024, when the child took supper to her father. She was again raped.
The abuse came to light after the child missed her menstrual period and confided in her grandmother, who subsequently opened a criminal case against her own son.
The accused pleaded not guilty but changed his version several times during cross-examination by Acting Regional Court Prosecutor Anelisiwe Rwaxa.
The court imposed two life sentences, which will run concurrently. The father’s identity has been withheld to protect the child.
Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Samkelo Mtwana, welcomed the sentence and commended the grandmother for supporting the child and ensuring that the matter was reported.
The NPA reaffirmed its commitment to combating gender-based violence and securing justice for victims.
