LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE WITH AGGRAVATING CIRCUMSTANCES
03 FEBRUARY 2026
LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE WITH AGGRAVATING CIRCUMSTANCES
Welkom, Free State – The Welkom Magistrates’ Court has sentenced Rajohn Matshela (49) to life imprisonment following his conviction for rape with aggravating circumstances, in terms of section 51(1) of the Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1997. The accused pleaded not guilty to the charge, which was read with the provisions of the minimum sentencing legislation due to the infliction of grievous bodily harm during the commission of the offence. Proceedings were conducted in camera due to the sensitive nature of the matter.
Evidence before the court revealed that in the early hours of 26 August 2024, the 27-year-old complainant was walking home from Radebe’s Tavern when she was accosted and violently assaulted by the accused. He threatened her with a knife and forcibly took her to a nearby dilapidated building, where she raped her.
The complainant was adamant that no consent was given at any stage. After the incident, the complainant immediately reported the matter to a neighbour, who became the first witness, and was later taken for medical examination at Bongani Hospital.
Medical evidence corroborated her version and confirmed injuries consistent with a violent assault. The court found the complainant and the first report witness to be credible and reliable, and rejected the accused’s version of consensual sexual intercourse as false and improbable. The State proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
In sentencing, the court found that no substantial and compelling circumstances existed to warrant a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence. The accused was accordingly sentenced to life imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The National Prosecuting Authority commends Prosecutor Sami Matthysen, Court Preparation Officer Khatshe Skosana, and the investigating officers of the South African Police Service for their diligent work in securing this conviction.
The NPA reiterates its unwavering commitment to the fight against gender-based violence and will continue to ensure that perpetrators are held fully accountable.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Free State Division
073 423 3539