UPINGTON – On Tuesday, 27 July 2021, the Regional court of Upington convicted Juvani Jantjies (19) for rape, sexual assault and Assault. He was handed a sentencing of 13 years imprisonment with two years suspended.

It is alleged that on 18 January 2020. at approximately 20:40. the 17-year-old victim was sent by her mother to go and buy electricity at the local Spaza shop. Whilst on her way in Rondomskrik, she was accosted by the accused who forcefully dragged her to an open veld where she was raped. The accused was arrested the following day and the investigating official Sergeant Thabisho Mashililishili successfully opposed his bail. The accused remained in custody until the conclusion of the case.

The Unit Commander of the Upington Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, Captain Koos van den Heever commended the sergeant for his dedication and commitment in this case. The accused was also declared unfit to possess a firearm and his name is recorded in the Sexual Offences Register for offenders.

Source: South African Police Service