Double Rape Accused Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison
A 27-year-old man, Desmond Abrahams, has been sentenced to 16 years in prison for the rape of two women in Kanoeneiland. The Regional Court of Upington delivered the sentence on February 27, 2025, after Abrahams was found guilty on both charges.
According to a police statement, the first incident occurred on April 11, 2021, when an 18-year-old woman was attacked and raped by Abrahams while walking home alone. The victim later identified him, leading to his arrest. He was granted bail while a DNA sample was sent for testing.
In a separate case on November 1, 2021, a 59-year-old woman was raped in her home by an unknown assailant. A case was registered with the police, and forensic analysis later linked Abrahams to the crime. He was arrested, denied bail, and remained in custody until his conviction.
Abrahams received a 9-year sentence for the first rape and 7 years for the second, which he will serve consecutively. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm under the Firearm Control Act.
Acting District Commissioner of ZF Mgcawu, Brigadier Peet Coetzee, praised the meticulous investigation conducted by Sergeant Lebogang Mokwene of the Upington Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit. Brigadier Coetzee reaffirmed the SAPS’ commitment to intensifying investigations into gender-based violence cases, ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice.
