Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Gang Rape
04 April 2025
Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Gang Rape
The Pretoria Regional Court has sentenced Mpho Mokoena (40) to life imprisonment for the gang rape of a 35-year-old male victim and an additional three years for kidnapping. The court ruled that the sentences will run concurrently with the life sentence and further declared Mokoena unfit to possess a firearm. Mokoena and the victim, both from Mamelodi East, were acquaintances. On 09 December 2014, at approximately 17:30, the victim was walking in Mamelodi when he encountered Mokoena, who was in a vehicle with accomplices who remain at large. The group asked the victim for directions to a drinking spot, and he voluntarily got into the car. However, instead of heading to the location, they drove to a cemetery in Silverton.
Upon arrival, the perpetrators forcibly removed the victim from the vehicle, held him against it, and Mokoena proceeded to rape him, causing severe injuries. They then abandoned him at the scene. The victim sought medical assistance at Mamelodi Hospital and reported the incident to the police. Following an intensive police investigation, Mokoena was handed over to authorities by his mother. However, he was later released on bail. The trial commenced in October 2017, and after the victim testified, proceedings were set to resume in February 2018. Mokoena, however, absconded, prompting the court to issue a warrant for his arrest. He was eventually re-arrested on 27 June 2023 after being found already serving another sentence in prison.
During sentencing, Mokoena, through his legal representative, pleaded for the court to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence. However, State Prosecutor Anton Burger urged the court to impose life imprisonment, emphasising the gravity of the crime, the common purpose with his accomplices, and Mokoena’s lack of remorse. Burger also argued that the gender of the victim should not influence sentencing, as minimum sentence legislation applies equally to all victims, regardless of gender. Additionally, the court was made aware that Mokoena had four prior convictions for theft and one for drug possession.
In delivering the sentence, Magistrate Mncube concurred with the state, highlighting that Mokoena exploited the trust of the victim, who had considered him a friend. The court found no substantial or compelling circumstances to justify a lesser sentence.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes this sentence, as it underscores the seriousness of the crime and reinforces the justice system’s commitment to protecting society from heinous acts. The NPA commends the court for ensuring that the perpetrator is held accountable for his actions.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Lumka Mahanjana
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Gauteng Division: Pretoria
073 002 0000
lmahanjana@npa.gov