GQEBERHA – Efforts to address the scourge of sexual offences and Gender Based Violence (GBV) is a continuous one and every endeavour must be made to arrest the perpetrators and ensure that justice is served.

The Family Violence Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit in Gqeberha have successfully secured a 20 year imprisonment for a Kwanobuhle man for raping and assaulting a 5-year-old girl in May 2018.

The accused, Ace Andile Ncetezo (23) was the boyfriend of the child’s mother when she was assaulted and raped.

In August 2019, another case of rape was opened against the accused allegedly committed on the same victim. The 2018 case was subsequently withdrawn at that time.

When the 2019 case was opened, the FCS investigating officer, D/W/O Sonwabo Teko re-opened the 2018 case for further investigation.

The accused was arrested in August 2019 and charged on the 2018 and 2019 cases. He remained in custody until the finalisation of the cases.

On Monday, 21 February 2022, Ncetezo was sentenced to 7 years for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and 20 years for rape. The 7 year sentence will run concurrently with the rape sentence.

Acting Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Brig Thandiswa Kupiso commended the investigating officer for his meticulous investigation. ‘Members of the community must realise that they have a social and moral obligation to assist the SAPS in the fight against GBV. Children are the most vulnerable and must be taught from an early age that their bodies are private and to immediately reach out for help when they feel violated. Parents must look out for the ‘tell-tale’ signs of abuse. Our children are hurt by the people they know and love who want to exercise power over the powerless,’ added Brig Kupiso.

Source: South African Police Service