Teen convicted for rape of 5-year-old boy in Kimberley

Katlego Sekhu

A 15-year-old boy has been convicted and sentenced in the Kimberley Regional Court under the Child Justice Act.
The conviction stems from an incident on December 18, 2024, at Longlands near Delportshoop.
The successful prosecution was initiated after the victim’s aunt noticed his discomfort and he revealed the assault.

The Kimberley Regional Court has convicted and sentenced a 15-year-old boy in terms of the Child Justice Act to compulsory detention at a youth and childcare centre for five (5) years, followed by a further three (3) years’ imprisonment.

The sentencing follows an incident that occurred on 18 December 2024 at Longlands near Delportshoop, where the accused raped a 5-year-old boy in the bathroom of his parents’ home.

After the assault, the victim returned home and experienced difficulty sitting. His aunt noticed his discomfort and questioned him, whereupon he broke down and revealed what had happened.

The incident was immediately reported to the police, and the victim was taken to hospital for a medical examination.

The suspect was subsequently arrested on 20 December 2024 and processed in accordance with the Child Justice Act.

Following his first court appearance on 23 December 2024, he was detained at a place of safety for juveniles in Kimberley and later abandoned his right to apply for bail.

The Frances Baard District SAPS management commended Constable Patience Fortuin of the Galeshewe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for her thorough investigation, which led to the successful conviction and sentencing.