Gqeberha – The Gqeberha Regional Court has sentenced Justin Van Niekerk (32) following his conviction on multiple serious charges, including rape, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, kidnapping, attempted murder and assault.
According to National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Luxolo Tyali, on 3 March 2024, Van Niekerk attacked his 25-year-old ex-girlfriend by stabbing her several times with a screwdriver, before kidnapping her from a friend’s house and taking her to his home in Greenbushes.
There, he subjected her to repeated rape and further assault.
Tyali said that the victim was released the next morning and immediately reported the crime to the authorities.
“Van Niekerk was arrested the same day after the complainant identified him near his home,” said Tyali.
Despite the accused’s denial of attempted murder and claims that the sexual acts were consensual, Tyali said that the court found him guilty based on the overwhelming evidence presented, which included forensic evidence confirming the extent of injuries inflicted on the victim.
“Advocate Kenny Van Biljon, arguing for an appropriate sentence, emphasised the premeditated and violent nature of the offences. He noted that Van Niekerk’s actions involved prolonged physical harm and significant psychological trauma to the victim,” said Tyali.
He said that the court sentenced Van Niekerk to life imprisonment for both counts of rape and attempted murder.
Additionally, he received 10 years for assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm and four years each for kidnapping and assault.
Tyali said that all sentences will run concurrently with the life term.
Welcoming the sentence, Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Barry Madolo, said, “This verdict demonstrates that violent crimes, particularly those committed against vulnerable victims, will not be tolerated. We commend the bravery of the survivor, whose courage in coming forward and providing detailed evidence played a critical role in securing this conviction. Our gratitude extends to the SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit and the prosecution team for their swift and thorough work on this case.”
Tyali said that the NPA reiterates its commitment to ensuring that survivors of gender-based violence are supported throughout the legal process.
The NPA encourages other victims of abuse to come forward, assuring them that every effort will be made to protect their rights and dignity.
