MBOMBELA – The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in Mpumalanga, Lt Gen Mondli Zuma lauded the police for their part in securing a hefty sentence for a rapist, last week Monday, January 22.

The man, Given Senzo Lekhuleni (22), was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment in the Nelspruit Regional Court for the rape of a woman in April 2016. He apparently ambushed and raped the victim while she walking on a secluded road near White River, and was apprehended on the same day of the offence. The investigation team built a strong case against the suspect, collaborating with the forensic laboratory in obtaining DNA samples to prove the case beyond any reasonable doubt.

The testimonies of the prosecutors (NPA), the SAPS and the victim all collaborated to prevent any loopholes in the case until a conviction was secured. The Department of Justice, through the magistrate, stressed the perfect synergy of the process, hence the sentence.

Zuma praised the investigating team of the Nelspruit Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit for their sterling and hard work.

“These type of sentences send a clear message to would-be criminals that crime does not pay,” the general concluded.

Submitted: Brig Leonard Hlati
Subeditor: Lynette Brink
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