The Theunissen regional court has sentenced Matebesi Papikie Bambiso (40) to life imprisonment for rape.
The sentencing follows an incident that occurred on Saturday 5 October 2024 at about 19:00. The regional court heard how the victim (46) was accosted by the accused and his accomplice while walking home from a traditional ceremony. She was able to identify one of them as Papi.
During the attack, the victim was struck on the left side of the head with a stone.
The victim recalled how both males assaulted her before taking turns to rape her. While she lay on the ground, they kicked her and Papi stabbed her. Believing her dead, they left after taking her daughter’s cellphone. The victim then got up and sought assistance at Theunissen police station, where a rape case was registered.
The investigation was assigned to Constable Theo Weilbach of the Bultfontein family violence, child protection and sexual offences unit. The suspect, known to the victim, was arrested on five November 2024 and was denied bail pending trial.
Working with prosecutor Dr I Maklein of the National Prosecuting Authority, the investigating officer secured the conviction. Matebesi Papikie Bambiso received a life sentence from Magistrate Mr Mitha on 28 April 2026.
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