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The DA in Limpopo welcomes the sentence handed down by the Thohoyandou High Court of 11 life terms on Friday after Given Maceke was convicted of 11 counts of rape and eight counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances.

The incidents for which Maceke, from Nyavani village in the Collins Chabane municipality, was convicted occurred between July 2013 and June 2016 during which he and another male person armed with knives threatened their victims before raping them.

Although the victims were unable to identify the accused, he was linked to the rapes through DNA evidence and pleaded guilty to all counts.

This case proves that DNA evidence is critical to ensure accuracy as well as justice for rape victims.

It is also significant that Maceke showed no remorse throughout his trial. Essentially, the only reason he stopped committing these heinous crimes is because he was caught.

The DA sincerely hopes that this sentencing will bring some closure to the women who have bravely come forward and reported their horrific experiences. They deserve to continue their lives with hope for the future.

Issued by Desiree van der Walt MP - DAWN Limpopo Chairperson