Man sentenced to life for raping minor daughter

MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR RAPING MINOR DAUGHTER

The Centane Regional Court sentenced Mboneleli Sabane (27) to life imprisonment for raping his seven-year-old daughter who does not share his surname with him. The incident took place in 2021 at Lusizi Location in the district of Centane. The victim was visiting her father's family when she was raped by her father inside a rondavel they were sleeping in during the night, after which he threatened her with death.

When the young victim reported to her paternal grandmother the following morning, she dismissed her and stood by her son, repeating his threats. When the pre-teen returned to her maternal home, she reported her ordeal to her cousin, who informed the elders. She was taken to Butterworth Thuthuzela Care Centre (TCC) where medical examinations confirmed she had been violated, leading to the father's arrest. 

During the trial, Sabane pleaded not guilty, denying ever touching her daughter during her visit.  The Acting Regional Court prosecutor, Siyabonga Manase led the evidence of the victim, who was assisted by the Court Preparation Officer (CPO), Brenda Kapa. The prosecution further called the first report witness, the cousin, and the TCC forensic nurse. After the conviction, prosecutor Manase implored the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, and the court agreed. 

The Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Barry Madolo commended the prosecutor, TCC staff,  CPO, and the Investigating Officer for the meticulous collection and presentation of evidence.

Kind regards,

Luxolo Tyali
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Eastern Cape Division
Tel: 0475012630
Cell: 0735559292
Email: ltyali@npa.gov.za