Life sentence for rapist gang
After three years, a grisly chapter in the annals of crime was closed when a gang of rapists were handed life sentences on Thursday, July 2 by Magistrate Hadebe.
The Madadeni Magistrates Court was the setting for justice in motion last week.
After three years, a grisly chapter in the annals of crime was closed when a gang of rapists were handed life sentences on Thursday, July 2 by Magistrate Hadebe.
The suspects were also found guilty of assault with the intent to cause grievous bodily harm and robbery.
Sthembiso Khumalo (23), Xolani Ndlovu (28) and Mxolisi Maxase had been in custody, on suspicion of perpetrating a mini crime spree in oSizweni on July 1, 2012.
Khulekani Khuzwayo, Amajuba Eyethu reporter attended the court hearing.
Describing the sequence of events told to the court, Mr Khuzwayo said the first victim was robbed and forced into a veld, at which point two more unsuspecting women were taken captive.
The rapist gang robbed the victims of their cellphones and beat them.
“One of the victims was stabbed and left for dead in the bush.”
While the one victim was bleeding out in the darkness, the gang took turns, repeatedly raping their captives for approximately two hours.
The next morning, the stabbing victim managed to find help.
Detective-Constable Sphamandla Masikane from the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) was the investigating officer.
He was congratulated on following the case to the end.
Through positive identification by line-up, identikits and DNA evidence, Khumalo and Ndlovu were linked to the case and arrested.
Maxase was already behind bars for other offences. It was reported all three accused had claimed their victims were prostitutes, attempting by this measure to justify their actions. However, Magistrate Hadebe believed this was proof of ulterior motive. In handing down the sentence, the magistrate noted the lack of remorse shown by the accused, using judgments in previous cases in delivering his verdict.
Prosecutor, Marion Smith, was also complimented on her work.
What are your views about this story?
Tell us by posting on our Facebook timeline, Newcastle Advertiser or tweet us at @nnadv.
Add us on BBM for the latest news in your community. PIN: 2B6C7269
(Please note: Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Newcastle Advertiser)
