By Staff Reporter
NKOWANKOWA – The Nkowa-Nkowa Regional Court has convicted and sentenced a 20-year-old man to seven life terms of imprisonment for seven counts of rape, plus an additional 15 years for robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The sentencing was delivered today, 27 October 2025. The court ordered the sentences to run concurrently, resulting in an effective life sentence, and declared the accused unfit to possess a firearm under Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.
The accused pleaded not guilty. The court heard that on 26 June 2017, he accosted three minor girls aged 9, 11, and 13 while they were returning from a friend’s house in Bonn village.
The accused was walking with a dog whilst armed with a panga, he forced them into the bushes, and raped them. The 11 and 13-year-old victims escaped, but he moved to another area in the bushes and raped the 9-year-old. He also robbed one victim of her cellphone.
The state presented victim testimonies, J88 medical reports detailing injuries, and Victim Impact Statements from a probation officer, highlighting the trauma and humiliation endured.
In aggravation, State Prosecutor Moretsele Michael argued that rape is a heinous crime, degrading and invasive to victims’ privacy and dignity, warranting harsh sentences to deter offenders. He urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed life imprisonment, citing no substantial or compelling circumstances. Presiding Officer Zanetic agreed, emphasising the court’s duty to impose severe penalties for such crimes.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence. Director of Public Prosecutions Adv. Ivy Thenga stated, “These cases provide justice and closure to victims and their families while removing violent criminals from our streets.” She commended the prosecution team and Investigating Officer Sergeant Mabongo of FCS Tzaneen Detectives. Ends
