| SAPS welcomes life sentence and lenghty imprisonment in child rape case in Gqeberha | |
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| Date Published | |
| 2026/02/05 | |
| Details | |
Media Statement GQEBERHA - The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Eastern Cape has welcomed the sentencing of convicted rapists Lisakhanya Tony (18) and Winston Smith (32), who were sentenced in the Gqeberha Regional Court on Wednesday, 04 February 2026, for the rape of an 11-year-old boy committed during September 2023. The incident occurred on 03 September 2023 at approximately 20:00 in Kuyga, Greenbushes, where the victim was with friends sitting around a fire in nearby bushes. The two convicted persons approached the group, cornered the victim, and raped him. A case of rape was subsequently reported at SAPS Kabega Park. On 04 September 2023, members of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit in Gqeberha arrested both accused. They were remanded in custody for the duration of the trial. On Monday, 02 February 2026, both accused were found guilty on charges of rape. On Wednesday, 4 February 2026, the Gqeberha Regional Court sentenced Lisakhanya Tony to 15 years’ imprisonment, while Winston Smith was sentenced to life imprisonment and was further declared unfit to possess a firearm. The Nelson Mandela Bay District Commissioner, Major General Vuyisile Ncata, commended the investigating officers, Sergeant Babalwa Ramba and Constable Xolisa Khedama from the FCS Unit, for their dedication and professionalism in ensuring justice for the victim. “This successful conviction and sentencing reflect the commitment of SAPS to protect the most vulnerable members of our society. These sentences send a clear and uncompromising message that such heinous crimes will be met with the full might of the law,” said Maj Gen Ncata. SAPS continues to encourage communities to report incidents of Gender Based Violence and child abuse, assuring the public that specialised units remain committed to thorough investigations and the pursuit of justice. Ends
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