Serial rapist sentenced to five life terms
Serial rapist sentenced to five life terms
The High Court of South Africa, Gauteng Local Division, Johannesburg sentenced Happy Mukwevho to five life terms plus 222 years imprisonment on charges of rape, kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, housebreaking with intent to rape, attempted robbery, possession of a dangerous weapon and pointing of what is believed to be a firearm. The court ordered the sentences to run concurrently and declared the accused unfit to possess a firearm.
In February 2018 and August 2020, the accused began his reign of terror in Diepsloot. Mukwevho committed these offences in the company of his friends. Their mode of operation included breaking into the complainants’ places while they were asleep. They used a side cutter to break door chains. They would rape women inside the homes, and steal money, cellphones, and other valuables. One of the complainants was removed from her place and taken to a dumping site where she was raped. Some of the complainants were familiar with the accused. Mukwevho was arrested on 01 November 2021. He was linked by DNA, which was collected from the women who reported the rapes timeously to the police.
In arguing for a harsh sentence, the Senior State Advocate, Adele De Klerk argued that none of Mukwevho’s circumstances are substantial and compelling. He is a hazardous person and should be removed permanently from society.
The NPA extends its gratitude to Advocate Adele De Klerk and Investigating Officer, Warrant officer Pule Chauke for ensuring that the accused faces the full might of the law. We hope that this sentence will send a clear message that crimes of this nature will not be tolerated.
Issued by,
Phindi Mjonondwane
NPA Regional Spokesperson-Gauteng Local Division
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