CONVICTION AND LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR SERIAL RAPIST WHO TARGETED ELDERLY WOMEN
12 DECEMBER 2025
CONVICTION AND LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR SERIAL RAPIST WHO TARGETED ELDERLY WOMEN
Kroonstad, Free State – The Kroonstad Regional Court has convicted and sentenced Mofihli Tshabalala for a series of violent rapes and robberies committed between 2012 and 2018 in the Maokeng area. The crimes were committed against elderly women aged 60 to 78 and were characterised by intimidation, the use of a knife, and deliberate targeting of vulnerable victims.
The court heard evidence relating to four separate incidents:
• 19 July 2017 (10:00): A 78-year-old woman was attacked while walking home near Maokeng.
• 21 June 2012 (11:30): A 70-year-old woman was accosted while returning from collecting firewood with a friend.
• 28 April 2016 (13:00), Gelukwaarts Cemetery: A 60-year-old woman was attacked in the presence of her aunt, during which both were robbed of their cellphones.
• 11 June 2018 (11:20): A 65-year-old woman was attacked in an open field near Maokeng.
In each incident, the accused used a knife to threaten the victims and assert control. Prosecutor Ntabeseng Motshabi argued for a life sentence, demonstrating the accused’s pattern of preying on elderly women over an extended period, his lack of remorse, and the danger he poses to society. The State presented extensive evidence, including a compelling Victim Impact Statement compiled by Court Preparation Officer Jabulani Tshabalala.
The court convicted Tshabalala on multiple counts of rape and robbery and imposed the following sentences:
• Count 1: 10 years’ imprisonment (Rape)
• Count 2: 10 years’ imprisonment (Rape)
• Count 3: 15 years’ imprisonment (Robbery)
• Count 4: 15 years’ imprisonment (Robbery)
• Count 5: 10 years’ imprisonment (Rape)
• Count 6: Life imprisonment (Rape)
• Count 7: 15 years’ imprisonment (Robbery) In terms of Section 280 of the Criminal Procedure Act, the sentences on counts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 will run concurrently with the life sentence on count 6.
The court also declared the accused unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103(1) of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.
The National Prosecuting Authority commends the prosecution and SAPS investigation teams for their professionalism and dedication in securing justice for the victims. Communities must be safe environments for women, children, and all vulnerable individuals, free from violence and exploitation. The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to combating gender-based violence and femicide. Through thorough investigations and vigorous prosecutions, the NPA works to ensure accountability, uphold victims’ rights and dignity, and promote safer communities.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division
073 423 3539