Kuruman man sentenced to 20 years for raping 5-year-old
A 42-year-old Heuningvlei man was sentenced to 20 years in prison for raping his five-year-old niece, following his confession and conviction in the Mothibistad Regional Court.
Image: Ayanda Ndamane / Independent Media
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that a 42-year-old man has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for raping a five-year-old girl in Heuningvlei.
According to SAPS, the crime occurred on January 17 2023 at approximately 11.50pm in Gasejane Village. The child’s 36-year-old mother had left her daughter with her uncle while she walked a friend home. When the mother returned, the girl reported that she had been raped.
Police said the uncle confessed to the crime, was arrested, and charged with rape. On August 18 2025, the Mothibistad Regional Court handed down a 20-year direct imprisonment sentence.
Brigadier Kenneth Baloyi, Acting District Commissioner of John Taolo Gaetsewe, praised the work of the police and prosecution, stating the conviction underscores efforts to protect vulnerable groups. “This sentence sends a strong message about the protection of women, children, and vulnerable groups, particularly as the nation observes Women’s Month,” he said.
He also commended Detective Sergeant Keitshwaretswe Tshikedi and the National Prosecuting Authority for their collaboration in securing the outcome.