A condom left at a crime scene almost seven years ago has sealed the fate of a rapist from Graaff Reinet who will spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Luxolo Tyali says 26-year-old Siphosethu Simons pleaded guilty to two counts of rape after DNA positively linked him to the crimes.
He was sentenced in the High Court, sitting in Graaff-Reinet this week.
Tyali says on the night of the 11th of November 2016, Simons approached his 27-year-old victim who was walking alone near the soccer stadium at Umasizakhe township.
Simons asked her for a cigarette but before she could respond he grabbed her by the clothing and raped her using a condom.
Tyali says after the rape the victim went to the police who found the condom at the crime scene.
Simons and his friend, who is unknown to the State, also took turns in raping a 13-year-old girl, who immediately reported the matter to police.
The NPA says when more DNA evidence was obtained Simons pleaded guilty but refused to divulge the name of his accomplice.
