The Tzaneen Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offenses (FCS) Unit has secured a life imprisonment term plus an additional ten years for a 29-year-old man convicted of rape and attempted murder in a 2017 attack.
The sentence was handed down on Wednesday, 14 May 2025, at the Ritavi Magistrate’s Court. The court heard that on 04 November 2017, a 29-year-old woman was walking alone in Lusaka Village when she was ambushed by five males, who assaulted her with their fists.
Four of the attackers fled, leaving the victim with the accused, Polvick Maake, who was 22 years old at the time. Maake then hacked the victim on the upper body with a sharp object before raping her. He left her unconscious at the scene, where she was later discovered by a passerby. The victim was rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment.
The Tzaneen FCS Unit took over the case, with Sergeant Nkakarene Rakgoale leading the investigation. Through her dedication and investigative skills, Maake was arrested on 28 November 2017. Rakgoale also successfully opposed bail, ensuring Maake remained in custody until sentencing.
Sentencing Details:
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Count 1: Rape – Life imprisonment
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Count 2: Attempted Murder – 10 years imprisonment
The court ruled that both sentences would run concurrently.
Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the Provincial Commissioner of Limpopo, praised the collaborative efforts of Sergeant Rakgoale, Prosecutor Michael Moretsele, and other key role-players in securing justice for the victim.
“This harsh sentence reflects the severity of these crimes and sends a strong message that such acts will not go unpunished,” said Lt. Gen. Hadebe.
The case highlights the continued efforts of law enforcement to combat gender-based violence and ensure perpetrators face the full might of the law.
