MAN SENTENCED TO 23 YEARS DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE

27 June 2025

MAN SENTENCED TO 23 YEARS DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE

The National Prosecuting Authority welcomes the sentence of 23 years direct imprisonment handed down by the Nelspruit Regional Court to a 37-year- old male from Zwelisha Trust for the rape of a female traditional healer (30) on two separate occasions . The court declared the accused unfit to possess a firearm.

Between 03 and 05 June 2019, the accused went to the complainant’s house in Zwelisha Trust carrying a firearm and gained entry under false pretenses of getting treated by her. Once in the house, the accused locked the door and proceeded to rape the victim in the presence of her 3-year-old son. He then threatened to kill the victim and her son should she report the rape to anyone. The victim reported the incident to her sister and to the police.

The accused pleaded not guilty stating that he was in a love relationship with the victim. To prove the state case beyond reasonable doubt, the Regional Court Prosecutor, Leana Jones presented compelling evidence of the victim’s sister which was corroborated by the victim. It also transpired during trial that the accused is a violent person.

Leanna Jones emphasised that women should not be reduced to mere objects and condemned the persistent violence faced by women in South Africa. Jones added that the accused showed no remorse for his action and that his actions were a heinous violation of human dignity, addressing the court to impose a suitable sentence. The accused was sentenced to 23 years direct imprisonment.

The National Prosecuting Authority calls on South Africans to unite against GBV and foster safe environments where women and children can thrive without fear. The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring justice for victims of gender – based violence.

Issued by:

Monica Nyuswa
NPA Regional Spokesperson
DPP Mpumalanga
013 0450625/0763855446
mnyuswa@npa.gov.za