MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE OF A PENSIONER
13 November 2025
MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE OF A PENSIONER
Kwamhlanga, Mpumalanga – The Kwamhlanga Regional Court has convicted and sentenced Vusi Daniel Sibiya (40) to life imprisonment, plus an additional 24 months’ imprisonment, for the rape of a 77-year-old pensioner in Tweefontein. Sibiya was convicted on charges of housebreaking with intent to rape and rape.
The incident occurred on the evening of 17 September 2020, when the accused broke into the victim’s home through a window. Upon hearing a knock at the door, the complainant went to investigate and found the accused, who was known to her. Sibiya then forcefully dragged her into her bedroom and raped her twice.
After the assault, the victim managed to reach a nearby shop to seek help, where she found the accused consuming alcohol. She immediately reported the incident to the police, leading to Sibiya’s arrest. The complainant was taken to a local clinic for medical treatment.
In court, Sibiya pleaded not guilty and remained silent during proceedings. However, Regional Court Prosecutor Bianca Harmse presented strong evidence, including testimony from several witnesses, the complainant’s first report, and the J88 medical report, which confirmed injuries consistent with penetration.
During cross-examination, Sibiya claimed an alibi, stating that he was at home with a relative at the time of the offence a version that contradicted his earlier claim of consensual intercourse in his warning statement. The court rejected his version and found him guilty as charged.
In aggravation of sentence, Prosecutor Harmse highlighted the seriousness of the crime and the violation of an elderly woman’s dignity and safety, urging the court to impose a suitable sentence. The court found no compelling or substantial circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence.
Sibiya was sentenced as follows: Life imprisonment for rape 12 months’ imprisonment for housebreaking.
The court further ordered that the accused’s name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders and declared him unfit to possess a firearm.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) remains steadfast in its commitment to confront sexual violence and ensure justice for victims — particularly the most vulnerable members of society. The NPA will continue to vigorously prosecute such crimes, upholding the constitutional rights to dignity and safety.
Issued by:
Monica Nyuswa
NPA Regional Spokesperson
DPP: Mpumalanga
013 045 0625 / 076 485 5446