KWAMHLANGA – The Mpumalanga Division of the High Court has sentenced 23-year-old Samkelo Mahlangu to 10 years' direct imprisonment for raping his 93-year-old neighbour in Vezubuhle in September 2022.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the conviction, describing the outcome as a demonstration of the strength of forensic and circumstantial evidence in securing justice, even in cases where victims are no longer able to testify.
The court heard that on 17 September 2022, Mahlangu forced his way into the elderly woman's home, knowing she lived alone. He then raped her inside the residence.
A passer-by was alerted by the victim's screams and entered the house to investigate. The witness found the elderly woman lying on the floor, injured and bleeding. She told the witness that the attacker was still inside the house.
After searching the house, the witness found Mahlangu hiding beneath an overturned wardrobe in one of the rooms. He was restrained and the matter was immediately reported to police, leading to his arrest.
Although the victim died before the matter could be heard in court, State Prosecutor Bianca Harmse relied on DNA evidence, medical findings and witness testimony to prove the State's case beyond reasonable doubt.
During the trial, Mahlangu denied the allegations, claiming he had responded to the victim's screams and that she had opened the door for him. However, the court rejected his version as false and inconsistent with the evidence.
Mahlangu was found guilty of housebreaking with intent to rape and rape in terms of Section 51(2)(b) of the Criminal Law Amendment Act 105 of 1997. He was sentenced to 10 years' direct imprisonment.
The court also declared him unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103(1) of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.
NPA Regional Spokesperson for Mpumalanga, Monica Nyuswa, said:
"The successful prosecution of this matter demonstrates that even where a victim is unable to testify due to death, the justice system can still deliver accountability through diligent investigation and strong forensic evidence. Crimes against vulnerable members of society will not go unpunished."
The NPA said the case reflects its continued commitment to ensuring accountability for sexual offences and protecting vulnerable members of society through effective prosecution and collaboration with law enforcement.
