The Pixley Ka Seme District Commissioner, Major General Nomana Mtukushe welcomed the hefty sentence handed down to a 34-year-old man for the rape of his daughter on her birthday. On 26 November 2023, the accused fetched his 13-year- old daughter at her grandmother’s house in Nonzwakazi, De Aar. It was the child’s birthday, and her father took her to his residence with promises to treat her on her special day. On arrival, the accused took her inside the house and locked all the doors and windows. He then forcefully undressed the victim and raped her. He kept her in the house and went to sleep. The child managed to climb out a window and return to her grandmother’s house. After relaying her ordeal to her grandmother, the police were subsequently informed. The De Aar Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit Branch Commander, Captain Wietz Coetzee lead the investigation. The suspect evaded arrest on several occasions, but was arrested on 29 November 2023 at his house after police received a tip-off from community members. The accused appeared in court and bail was opposed. He remained in custody until his conviction and sentencing. On Thursday, 09 April 2026, the De Aar Regional Court convicted the accused of rape and sentenced him to thirty years imprisonment. Additionally he was declared unfit to possess a firearm and his name is to be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders. Major General Mtukushe applauded Detective Captain Coetzee for thoroughly investigating the case that led to the conviction and suitable sentencing. The protection of women and children remain a priority for SAPS. Detectives remain committed to ensuring that perpetrators feel the full might of the law. Ends Enquiries: Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane Northern Cape Media Centre 📞053 802 7306 📱071 310 9507 📧shemanem@saps.gov.za