NPA SECURES DOUBLE LIFE SENTENCE FOR SERIAL RAPIST CONVICTED OF GANG RAPE AND RAPE

Brits, North West – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence imposed by the Brits Regional Court on Elias Motsupi (30), who was sentenced to two terms of life imprisonment after being convicted on two counts of rape in contravention of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007.

The convictions relate to two separate incidents committed in 2018 and 2019.

In the first incident, which occurred on 11 November 2018, Motsupi, acting in common purpose with other perpetrators, gang-raped a 23-year-old woman who was walking along a street. The victim was sexually assaulted by Motsupi and the other perpetrators during the attack.

In a separate incident on 10 June 2019, Motsupi unlawfully entered another victim’s home while she was asleep and raped her.

During sentencing proceedings, State Prosecutor Andries Mogotho presented compelling arguments in aggravation of sentence. The court heard that Motsupi is not a first-time offender and has an extensive criminal record, including two previous convictions for rape, one conviction for robbery with aggravating circumstances, and one conviction for kidnapping. He is also currently serving a life sentence.

The State further argued that Motsupi only pleaded guilty after being confronted with overwhelming evidence against him, including DNA evidence linking him to the offences. It was submitted that he had shown no genuine remorse for his actions.

The prosecution emphasised the gravity of the offences, particularly the gang rape of a woman in a public space, and argued that no substantial and compelling circumstances existed to justify a departure from the prescribed minimum sentence.

The court agreed with the State's submissions and imposed two life sentences, one for each count of rape.

In addition, Motsupi was declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103(1) of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentence and said its severity should serve as a strong deterrent to those who continue to prey on women, children, and other vulnerable members of society.

“The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of sexual offences are held accountable and that justice is secured for victims and survivors,” said Dr Makhari.

The NPA reiterates that sexual violence is a serious violation of the constitutional rights to dignity, bodily integrity, and privacy. As such, the prosecution of these offences remains a priority in ensuring justice for victims and safer communities.

Issued by:

Lindiwe Mabasa

NPA Communications Officer

North West Division