Young Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Gang Rape

10 April 2025

Young Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Gang Rape

The Belfast Magistrates’ Court convicted and sentenced Sifiso Ronny Prince Mokoena (26) to life imprisonment for gang rape of an adult woman (40). On 26 July 2020, the victim was in the field with the two ladies at Waterval Boven, Belfast, collecting firewood when three males wearing balaclavas emerged. Two men threatened the victim and took turns raping her before fleeing the scene. The complainant reported the ordeal, and the police investigations led to the arrest of Mokoena, who was linked to the offence through DNA and his co-perpetrators were never found.

The accused pleaded not guilty and elected to remain silent during the trial. Prosecutor Makhosonke Mashinini presented overwhelming evidence of the victim; the two ladies also testified. DNA evidence linking the accused to the offence was also presented. The J88 medical report, including the photo album depicting the crime scene, was handed in. The court found the accused guilty as charged.

In aggravation of sentence, Prosecutor Mashinini argued that the accused showed no remorse for his actions throughout the trial, was not a candidate for rehabilitation and that the community’s interest in retribution and deterrence justified a harsh sentence. A Victim Impact Report indicating that the victim was left terrified with emotional, physical and psychological scars was presented. In sentencing the accused, the court found no substantial and compelling reasons justifying deviation from the prescribed sentence.  The accused was sentenced to life imprisonment for gang rape. The court declared Mokoena unfit to possess a firearm and unsuitable to work with children.

This sentence will serve as a crucial reminder of the NPA’s ongoing dedication to advocating for the rights and safety of the victims within our communities, especially vulnerable members of society. Welcoming the sentence, the Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Sonja Ntuli, stated that this conviction and sentence send a strong message to potential offenders that the justice system will respond sternly to the perpetrators of such crimes. Justice is seen to be served.


Issued by:

Monica Nyuswa
NPA Regional Spokesperson
DPP Mpumalanga
0130450625
Cell: 0764855446
Email: mnyuswa@npa.gov.za