YOUNG MAN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE

03 JULY 2025

YOUNG MAN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS DIRECT IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPE

Carolina, Mpumalanga – The Carolina Regional Court has convicted and sentenced Linda Nicholas Masango (25) to 15 years of direct imprisonment for the rape of an adult woman.

The incident occurred on 28 August 2022 when the complainant visited a local Tavern in Carolina, where she met the accused. After socialising and consuming alcohol together, the accused began making romantic advances toward her. He later accompanied the complainant as she walked home. Along the way, he tripped her into a ditch, raped her, and fled the scene.

The complainant immediately reported the matter to the police, and the accused was traced and arrested.

In court, the accused claimed he was intoxicated and denied raping the complainant. However, State Prosecutor Makhosonke Mashinini led compelling evidence, including the complainant’s testimony and a J88 medical report, which confirmed injuries to the victim’s private parts. The court found the complainant’s account credible and rejected the accused’s version.

Prosecutor Mashinini argued that women in South Africa have the right to move freely and safely in public spaces and to enjoy themselves without fear of violence or harassment. He urged the court to impose the prescribed minimum sentence.

In sentencing, the court acknowledged the alarming levels of gender-based violence in the country and emphasised the importance of protecting vulnerable members of society. The accused was sentenced to 15 years of direct imprisonment and was also declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.

The National Prosecuting Authority welcomes the sentence and reaffirms its commitment to securing justice for victims of gender-based violence and promoting safe communities for all.

Issued by:

Monica Nyuswa
Regional Spokesperson
DPP Mpumalanga
013 045 0625 /0764855446
mnyuswa@npa.gov.za