ODENDAALSRUS REGIONAL COURT IMPOSES DOUBLE LIFE SENTENCES ON SERIAL RAPIST
13 February 2026
ODENDAALSRUS REGIONAL COURT IMPOSES DOUBLE LIFE SENTENCES ON SERIAL RAPIST
Odendaalsrus, Free State – The Odendaalsrus Regional Court has sentenced Jabulani Stenly Mahlanyane (42) from Kutloanong to two terms of life imprisonment following his conviction on two counts of rape.
In the first incident (case 298/12/2021), on 25 December 2021, the accused broke into the home of a 62-year-old woman in Kutloanong while she slept. Despite her fierce resistance, including pouring urine on him to fend him off, he overpowered her, raped her once without protection, and then fell asleep on her bed. Police arrested him at the scene when she sought help. The victim testified that this was her first encounter with Mahlanyane, who denied both the rape and his presence in her home.
The second case (case 252/09/2022) involved a 69-year-old woman disabled by a stroke. On 17 September 2022, Mahlanyane initially visited her home seeking his girlfriend (who had been arrested) and left. He returned that evening during load shedding, found the victim alone, and raped her twice without protection. Her granddaughter, who recognised him, discovered his presence and alerted neighbours, leading to his arrest days later. Mahlanyane offered a bare denial to the charges.
Regional Court Prosecutor Moses Baloyi argued for life imprisonment on both counts, emphasising the accused’s prior rape conviction and the imperative to send a strong message against gender-based violence. Regional Magistrate Nompumelelo Gusha convicted Mahlanyane on both counts and imposed life imprisonment per count, underscoring the crimes' brutality and severity.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) reaffirms its unwavering commitment to eradicating gender-based violence and holding perpetrators accountable. The NPA will persist in protecting vulnerable individuals and safeguarding the dignity and safety of all citizens.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Free State Division
073 423 353