RAPIST SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPING 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN TLHABANE
24 June 2025
RAPIST SENTENCED TO 18 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR RAPING 15-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN TLHABANE
Tlhabane, North West – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the 18-year imprisonment sentence handed down by the Tlhabane Regional Court to Jankie Mankwe (48) for the rape of a 15-year-old girl in Phatsima village on 17 June 2022. The court also declared Mankwe unfit to possess a firearm and ordered his inclusion on the National Register for Sex Offenders, reinforcing the NPA’s unwavering commitment to combating gender-based violence (GBV) and ensuring justice for vulnerable minors.
On 17 June 2022, the victim, a 15-year-old girl, was doing laundry outside her home in Phatsima village near Rustenburg when Mankwe approached her, pretending to request her father’s cellphone number. He sent the children accompanying the victim to a nearby shop to buy milk, isolating her. As the victim entered her house, Mankwe followed and raped her. One of the children, returning from the shop, witnessed the assault through the door and immediately informed the victim’s mother, who was nearby. The mother reported the incident to the South African Police Service, leading to Mankwe’s arrest. He was later released on bail pending trial.
Mankwe pleaded not guilty, denying the allegations. State Prosecutor Sangweni Zimema presented compelling evidence, including the victim’s testimony, the child witness’s account, and supporting medical evidence confirming the assault. A Victim Impact Statement detailed the profound psychological trauma endured by the victim, highlighting her ongoing fear and distress. The court found the prosecution’s evidence overwhelming, rejecting Mankwe’s defence as implausible.
In aggravation of sentence, Prosecutor Zimema emphasised the premeditated nature of the crime, noting that Mankwe exploited the victim’s trust, as she referred to him as “uncle.” Zimema underscored the alarming prevalence of GBV in South Africa, arguing that Mankwe posed a significant danger to the community and that a severe sentence was necessary to protect society. Regional Court Magistrate Paul Moeng concurred, stating, “The accused’s calculated betrayal of a trusted relationship demands a strong response to deter such heinous acts.” Finding substantial and compelling circumstances to deviate from the prescribed life imprisonment under Section 51(1) of the Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1997, the court imposed 18 years’ imprisonment, alongside firearm restrictions and sex offender registry inclusion.
The NPA commends the courage of the 15-year-old victim and the child witness, whose swift actions ensured accountability. North West Director of Public Prosecutions Dr. Rachel Makhari praised Prosecutor Sangweni Zimema, the investigating officers, and the South African Police Service for their diligent collaboration, stating, “This conviction sends a clear message: the NPA will relentlessly pursue GBV perpetrators, ensuring justice restores safety and dignity for victims.” The NPA’s partnership with Thuthuzela Care Centres (TCCs) provided critical psychosocial support to the victim, reflecting its victim-centric approach.
The NPA urges communities to remain vigilant in protecting minors, reporting abuse promptly, and supporting survivors through TCCs, which offer medical, psychological, and legal assistance. This case highlights the vital role of children and families in confronting GBV, as demonstrated by the young witness’s bravery and the mother’s decisive action. The NPA calls on South Africans to foster safe spaces for victims to disclose abuse, working together to eradicate GBV and build a society where every child is protected.
Issued by:
Sivenathi Gunya
Communications Officer
North West Division
National Prosecuting Authority
sgunya@npa.gov.za
078 172 9367