TWO Inchanga rapists were sentenced to life imprisonment in the Pietermaritzburg High Court on Wednesday, 10 June.
On 19 April last year, an 18-year-old woman was on her way home with her boyfriend when she was attacked by Scebi Ndlovu (20) and Sanele Ngcobo (22). It is alleged that she was dragged into nearby bush at knife-point and repeatedly raped by the two men.
The Pinetown Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit arrested and charged the accused after an investigation.
After numerous court appearances, the Pietermaritzburg High Court sentenced Ndlovu to seven life terms for seven counts of rape and Ngcobo to five life terms for five counts of rape and a further 12 months for stealing a cellphone.
The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, Willies Mchunu, welcomed the life sentences meted out to Ndlovu and Ngcobo for the numerous rapes of the woman, and said this sends a clear message to criminals and offenders that rapists and those who attack women would be brought to justice.
“This case is one of the most inhumane crimes committed against a young woman. The pain felt by the family and friends of the victim is immeasurable. The sentences handed down by the court are welcomed, and we hope this serves as a deterrent to those who commit crimes and would-be offenders of such violent and brutal crimes against women.
“Those who attack, rape or assault children and women must know that there are severe consequences for inflicting pain. The perpetrators of crimes against women should know that they cannot operate with impunity.
“We thank the SAPS and prosecution teams that worked tirelessly to ensure that justice is done for the victim and her family. We hope the sentences will bring closure to the victim, her family and friends,” said Mchunu.
He added that the provincial government and the department had identified rape and murder as priority crimes that need special attention.
“The call is for the mobilisation and strengthening of key role players and stakeholders to give particular attention on these types of crimes. Such focus and mobilisation is bound to deliver the desired impact against crime,” he added.
