Welkom – The paroled rapist who poured a bucket of human waste all over a nurse he was unhappy with has been sent back to prison.
Following the attack, the individual who was not named to protect the rape survivor, even had the audacity to brag about his actions on social media.
The 38-year-old man, who had previously sought medical assistance, assaulted the nurse at Thabong Clinic, Welkom, Free State on 26 July 2024.
This month the Welkom Magistrate’s Court sentenced the “poo attacker” to 18 months in prison.
The parolee was also ordered to serve the remaining five years of his previous 15-year sentence for rape.
Consequently, the rapist poo-attacker will serve a total of six years and eight months in prison.
The court proved that the 38-year-old parolee was unhappy with the slow pace of service during his visit to the clinic last year on Thursday, 25 July 2024.
After leaving voluntarily, he returned the next day with a bucket of excrement, which he poured on the unsuspecting nurse, causing chaos and forcing the clinic to close prematurely.
A case was opened with the South African Police Service (SAPS), which revealed that the perpetrator was a parolee.
He was quickly apprehended for both the assault and the violation of his parole conditions.
“Following the attack, the individual boasted about his actions on social media, demonstrating a lack of remorse and highlighting the premeditated nature of his actions,” the court concluded.
The affected health worker and other staff members received counseling from the department and returned to their duties, showcasing their resilience and commitment to patient care.
The parolee was sentenced for the poo attack on 20 March 2025.
Commenting on the sentencing, Free State MEC for Health Monyatso Mahlatsi commended the health worker for her strength and determination to seek justice.
“We commend her for standing firm in the face of adversity and pursuing justice against her perpetrator,” MEC Mahlatsi said.
“We are also pleased that during Human Rights Month, which includes International Women’s Day on 8 March, the courts have upheld the rights of health workers as fundamental human rights.”
MEC Mahlatsi made mention of Sister Palesa Litshibane, Operations Manager at Thabong Clinic in Welkom, for her leadership and support to her team during these challenging times.
MEC Mahlatsi welcomed the sentencing and issued a warning to those who commit acts of violence against public servants.
“We hope this sentence sends a clear message to society that violence and abuse will not be tolerated in our health facilities or society at large,” MEC Mahlatsi said.
“We urge all patients to remain patient and follow the proper complaints management procedures instead of resorting to violence.”
