Sergeant Luzuko Helesi attached the Port Alfred Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offence Unit, secured a total 39 years’ imprisonment against three accused in five separate cases in the Alexandria Regional Court on 5 July 2019. He attributes this success to the close working relationship and guidance from the prosecutor, colleagues and his commander.
Manyathi Tshonisile Gazi aged 58 was sentenced for raping a 13 year old female at Ekuphumleni, Kenton on Sea in early January 2019. The victim was in the company of her young minor friends when she was lured and raped by the suspect in bushes close to her home. The victim’s mother who was alerted managed to free her child and reported the matter. The suspect was arrested shortly after the incident.
Yona Bongani Dzuza aged 29 was sentenced on two separate cases. Rape, 10 years’ imprisonment and attempted rape, 3 years’ imprisonment.
During October 2015, the accused raped a 15 year old girl in Alexandria, and in late December 2018, he attempted to rape a 13 year old at her home in Alexandria. Upon his arrest, the suspect was linked with his DNA to the 2015 case.
Miles Maroon aged 19 was sentenced to 9 years’ imprisonment each on two separate cases. During April 2017, the accused threatened a 14 year old with a knife and raped her in Alexandria. He was arrested and appeared in the local Magistrate’s Court where he was released on R500 bail. In late May 2017, whilst on bail, the accused accosted a 15 year old female, repeatedly struck her with a brick and raped her. He was arrested shortly after the incident and remained in custody throughout the trial until his sentence.
Brigadier Morgan Govender, the Cluster Commander of Port Alfred commended the member for his commitment and hours of dedication towards the investigation of the sensitive cases. “Your actions have restored hope for the victims in the Criminal Justice System. Continue with the great work and the compassion that you constantly exhibit to the vulnerable victims”, he added.
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