COLESBERG – A Northern Cape man will spend the next three decades behind bars after being convicted of the repeated rape of a 10-year-old girl over a two-year period

The Colesberg Regional Court heard that the perpetrator was the victim’s neighbour. The sexual abuse began in 2023 when the child was only eight years old and continued until 2025.The case has highlighted the ongoing battle against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the province, specifically involving victims known to their attackers.

The accused faced two counts of rape. The court handed down the following sentence: Count 1: 15 year’s imprisonment. Count 2: 15 year’s imprisonment. Total effective sentence: 30 years behind bars.

Provincial police spokesperson, Molefi Shemane, confirmed that the accused was denied bail throughout the trial and remained in custody until his conviction.

In addition to the prison term, the court has moved to ensure the perpetrator is restricted upon any future release.

“The man has been declared unfit to possess a firearm and his name will be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders,” said Shemane.

The police have lauded the investigation team for securing a conviction that removes a dangerous predator from the Colesberg community.