Rapist Gets 2 Life Sentences And 61 Years Imprisonment

The Pietermaritzburg High Court has sentenced Mduduzi Hopewell Shembe (32), to two terms of life and 61 years imprisonment, following his conviction on four counts of rape and three counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances. The incidents took place in Umlazi and Tongaat, from June 2017 to June 2018, when Shembe and his accomplice raped, attacked, and robbed the women in their homes.

In one of the incidences, they robbed two men in the Umlazi area and took their vehicle as well as their cellphones, digital camera, GPS device, glasses cash and a firearm. He was arrested after DNA evidence linked him to the offences. His arrest took place at the Umbumbulu Magistrates’ Court, where he was appearing on a different matter. His accomplice has not yet been arrested.

In court State Adv. Bonginkosi (Bonga) Mbokazi, led the testimonies of all the victims, as well as expert DNA witnesses, and video footage. Shembe was sentenced to two terms of life, and 30 years imprisonment, for the rapes and 31 years imprisonment for the robberies. The sentences will run concurrently, resulting in effective life imprisonment. The Court deemed him unfit to possess a firearm.

The NPA commend the work done by the Prosecution and Police in securing this conviction. Sentences of this nature are indicative of our dedication to fighting crime, moreover gender-based violence.

Note: The NPA’s media statements are available on the website:www.npa.gov.za

Issued by

Natasha Ramkisson-Kara

NPA Regional Spokesperson

KZN Division

Enquiries: nramkisson@npa.gov.za / 0716700229