In a landmark ruling, the Polokwane High Court in Limpopo has sentenced Mathatha Gift Phelane, 28, to 70 years in prison for his heinous crimes against young women in the Tubatse District.
Phelane, from Ga-Podile, was found guilty on seven counts of rape, six counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, and three counts of kidnapping.
The court heard how Phelane terrorised communities in Ga Mphethi, Ga-Manyaka, Ga-Selala, Ga-Maroga, and Mafolo Park between 2020 and 2021.
Under the guise of offering them jobs, he would lure the women into the bushes where he would then threaten them with a weapon, rob them of their belongings, and sexually assault them before leaving them stranded and traumatised.
Thanks to the bravery of one victim who managed to take a photo of Phelane during the ordeal, he was eventually identified and arrested. Further investigation linked his DNA to other rape cases in the area, leading to his conviction.
During the trial, Phelane showed no remorse for his actions, claiming that all the victims were his girlfriends.
His deliberate manipulation and disregard for the well-being of these women were noted by Acting Judge Ephraim Makgoba, who imposed the maximum sentence to ensure the safety of women in the community.
Advocate Muneiwa Ratshibvumo, who prosecuted the case, commended the victims for seeking justice and spoke of their resilience in the face of such trauma.
The Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate Ivy Thenga, expressed satisfaction in seeing the victims of gender-based violence receive justice and their dignity restored.
Phelane’s sentence serves as a reminder that perpetrators of such heinous crimes will face severe consequences for their actions.
The National Prosecuting Authority Regional Spokesperson, Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi, emphasised the importance of holding rapists accountable and ensuring the safety and well-being of all members of society.
This case serves as a victory for the victims of gender-based violence and a warning to those who prey on the vulnerability of others. The sentence imposed on Phelane sends a clear message that such despicable acts will not be tolerated in our society.
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