KOMANI – The Komani Regional Court sentenced Andile Nkomo (36) to life imprisonment on 12 June after he forced his way into his ex-girlfriend’s home, threatened her with a knife in front of her 14-year-old daughter, and repeatedly raped her throughout the night.

The court also declared Nkomo unfit to possess a firearm.

According to police spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela, on 24 October 2021 at around 22:00, the 36-year-old victim was at her homestead in Mbinzana Locality, Bholothwa Administration Area, when her ex-boyfriend, Nkomo, forcefully knocked on the door and compelled her to open it.

She said that the victim, who was with her 14-year-old daughter at the time, complied.

Mgolodela said that Nkomo demanded that the victim accompany him to his residence in Dudumashe Locality, Bholothwa.

She said that when the victim refused, Nkomo drew a knife in front of the victim’s daughter.

Mgolodela said that, fearing for her life, the victim went with Nkomo to his home.

“Upon arrival, Nkomo severely beat the victim and instructed her to undress. He then raped her numerous times throughout the night. The following morning, while Nkomo was asleep, the victim managed to escape,” said Mgolodela.

She further said that prior to the incident, the victim had applied for a protection order after receiving threats of vengeance from Nkomo, who was displeased about their breakup.

“The complaint was lodged with Bholothwa SAPS on 25 October 2021, and Nkomo was arrested the same day. He remained in custody for three months before being granted bail,” said Mgolodela.

She said that he made a series of court appearances at the Komani Regional Court prior to his final sentencing on 12 June.

District Commissioner, Major General Rudolph Adolph, welcomed the life imprisonment sentence imposed on Nkomo by the Komani Regional Court.

Adolph commended the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Mhlanguli Gama of the Cofimvaba Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit, for the sterling work that ensured the perpetrator received a sentence proportionate to his offence.

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