The Thohoyandou Local Division of the Limpopo High Court recently sentenced Azwimmbavhi Netshitungulu Daswa to 35 years imprisonment for raping a 15-year-old girl in November 2015.
Directorate of Public Prosecutions’ Regional Communications Manager, Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi said the girl and two friends were playing at a river when approached by Daswa who threatened them with a knife and instructed them to wait for their turn at Vhufuli Village outside Thohoyandou.
Daswa raped one of the girls who immediately reported the incident and lead to the speedy arrest of Daswa. Malabi-Dzhangi said Daswa pleaded guilty to a charge of rape and was sentenced accordingly.
In aggravation of sentence, State Prosecutor Ratshilumela Makhera submitted to the court that rape degrades, humiliates and dehumanises the victim. He further indicated that rape was rife in the Vhembe District.
Judge Nare Kgomo indicated that a misconception existed that rape only became more gruesome if the victim sustained injuries. The court further mentioned that the accused will have to go to prison for a long time so that he can be rehabilitated and become a good community member, Malabi-Dzhangi stated.
Story: RC Myburgh
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