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The 21-year-old man pleaded guilty to rape charges when he appeared before Regional magistrate Mr William Bhila.
Mr Bhila sentenced him to 20 years imprisonment but suspended four years on condition of good behaviour.
In assessing sentence Mr Bhila concurred with Prosecutor Mr Dumisani Mthombeni that the man had committed a serious offence warranting a lengthy custodial sentence.
In aggravation Mr Mthombeni submitted: “Accused committed a very serious offence the sentence of which stands liable to life imprisonment or any shorter period. His moral blameworthiness is very high because he raped his niece who is only four years old and defenceless.
“He betrayed the relationship of trust and duty of care to look after the child in the absence of her parents. He chose to satisfy his sexual desire and craving this minor other than consenting adults,” he submitted.
He said the child was placed on medication recommended by doctors to reduce chances of contracting HIV if her uncle proves to be positive.
The agreed facts were that on June 9 this year the uncle was left with the toddler and he took her to his bedroom.
While inside he laid her on the bed and raped her.
As he was about to go out, he was seen by the toddler’s mother who became suspicious and checked the toddler.
The mother found the minor had been raped and reported the case to the police.
Online Reporter