The Makhanda High Court has sentenced a 48-year-old Eastern Cape uncle to life imprisonment for repeatedly raping his 10-year-old niece. The court delivered the sentence on Monday, 22 June 2026, after prosecutors proved the abuse occurred over several months while the child was in his care.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the case demonstrates how courts treat sexual offences against children, especially those involving a family member’s breach of trust.

Abuse Took Place Over Six Months While Uncle Cared for Children

The offences occurred in Nqweba between January and June 2025. The girl lived with her mother, two younger brothers and the maternal uncle. Her mother worked elsewhere and left the children in the uncle’s care during the day. He was unemployed at the time.

NPA spokesperson Luxolo Tiyali said the uncle called the child into a room, locked the door and raped her on several occasions. He also told her not to disclose the abuse.

The child remained silent until a friend of her mother noticed she had difficulty walking. After questioning, she disclosed what had happened. Police received the report immediately. A medical examination found injuries to both the vaginal and anal areas consistent with sexual penetration. These findings supported her account.

The uncle was arrested after he went to a police station to ask about the allegations against him.

Court Convicts Uncle After Considering Multiple Witness Testimonies

State Advocate Thandiwe Kaleni led the state’s case. Witnesses included the complainant, her mother, her aunt, a first report witness and a forensic nurse who compiled the J88 medico-legal report. The complainant also received support through the Dora Nginza Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC).

The accused pleaded not guilty and relied on a bare denial. The court rejected his version. It found the state’s evidence credible, consistent and reliable, and convicted him.

Life Sentence Plus Further Restrictions on the Offender

In addition to life imprisonment, the court barred the uncle from owning firearms. It ordered his name entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders and declared him unfit to work with children. The court noted that the abuse of trust and the victim’s young age aggravated the offence.

Acting Director of Public Prosecutions in the Eastern Cape, Samkelo Mtwana, welcomed the sentence. He said it reflects the seriousness with which the justice system treats sexual offences against children, particularly where a family member breaches trust.

NPA Spokesperson Outlines Case Details and Commitment to Victims

NPA spokesperson Luxolo Tiyali provided the detailed account of the abuse and investigation. The NPA has reiterated its commitment to protecting vulnerable victims, especially children, and to ensuring that perpetrators of sexual offences are prosecuted and held accountable.

The Eastern Cape uncle jailed for life in this matter now faces lifelong consequences. These include restrictions that aim to prevent further harm to children.