SERIAL RAPIST CONVICTED IN EAST LONDON HIGH COURT

11 June 2025

SERIAL RAPIST CONVICTED IN EAST LONDON HIGH COURT

The High Court of South Africa, Eastern Cape Division, East London Circuit Court has convicted Lwando Sfiso Phike (32) on eight counts of rape, four counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, and one count of attempted rape. The offences occurred between 2017 and 2022 and involved victims aged between 14 and 23.

It is alleged that Phike’s campaign of terror targeted vulnerable girls and women in East London, including Duncan Village, Braelyn, Cambridge, and the vicinity of Hemingways Mall. His modus operandi was consistent and predatory: he would follow or intercept victims while armed with a knife, lead them to secluded areas, sexually assault them, and forcefully take their cell phones or money. Several of the victims sustained severe genital injuries. DNA evidence and medical reports corroborated the victims’ accounts.

Phike pleaded guilty to all charges in terms of Section 112(2) of the Criminal Procedure Act. In his statement, he admitted to deliberately committing acts of sexual penetration and robbery. Despite being sentenced for other rape convictions from 2016 to 2020, he continued to face prosecution for these additional crimes and has a pending rape case in Butterworth.

The State, represented by Advocate Sakhumzi Mtsila, alleges that Phike deliberately targeted isolated victims and used threats of violence to silence them. He showed no remorse and repeated his crimes over several years. The matter has been postponed to 23–26 September 2025 for sentencing.

The National Prosecuting Authority will argue for a life sentence, citing the heinous and repeated nature of the offences, the ages of the victims, and the lasting psychological impact. Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Barry Madolo, has welcomed the conviction and commended the police and prosecution team for their commitment in securing justice for the survivors.

Issued by:

Luxolo Tyali
Regional Spokesperson – Eastern Cape Division
National Prosecuting Authority
047 501 2630
ltyali@npa.gov.za
Enquiries:
nmakupula@npa.gov.za | 068 268 2473