LIFE AND AN ADDITIONAL 38 YEARS' IMPRISONMENT FOR CHILD SEX OFFENDER

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence of life imprisonment and an additional 38 years' imprisonment imposed by the Giyani Regional Court on a 30-year-old man from Mapuve Village following his conviction for the rape of a 16-year-old girl, the attempted rape of a 15-year-old girl, and two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances.

The court ordered that the sentences run concurrently, resulting in an effective sentence of life imprisonment. In addition, the accused was declared unfit to possess a firearm, and the court ordered that his name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.

The accused pleaded not guilty to all charges. During the trial, the State proved that on 15 April 2023, at Maswanganyi Village, the two victims were collecting firewood in a nearby bush when the accused approached them, threatened them with a knife, and robbed them of their cellphones. He then forced the girls deeper into the bush, where he tied up one victim and raped the other.

During sentencing proceedings, State Prosecutor Tumelo Maumela Matshehla argued that the accused's actions not only violated the victims' rights to dignity, privacy, and security but also caused significant psychological trauma.

The State further submitted that the prevalence of sexual offences against minor children, as reflected in the number of such matters appearing on the Giyani court roll, underscores the seriousness of the problem and the need for courts to impose appropriate sentences that protect vulnerable members of society and deter potential offenders.

The prosecution argued that the interests of society would not be served by lenient punishment and urged the court to impose a sentence commensurate with the gravity of the offences committed.

Welcoming the sentence, the Director of Public Prosecutions in Limpopo, Advocate Ivy Thenga, said: "This sentence will serve as a deterrent to would-be offenders and demonstrates that the criminal justice system treats offences against children with the seriousness they deserve. It also represents an important step towards restoring the dignity of the victims and affirming their right to protection and justice."

Advocate Thenga further commended State Prosecutor Tumelo Maumela Matshehla and the investigating team for their commitment and professionalism in ensuring a successful prosecution.

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting children and combating sexual and gender-based violence. Working with its criminal justice partners, the NPA will continue to ensure that perpetrators of such crimes are prosecuted without fear, favour, or prejudice and are held accountable for their actions.

Issued by:

Mashudu Malabi

Regional Spokesperson

Limpopo Division

National Prosecuting Authority