The Vryheid Regional Court has sentenced two men to life imprisonment for rape and a combined 30 years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances following a violent attack in the Mondlo area near Vryheid in October 2023.

Sbongakonke Ngidi (23) and Philani Gasa (23) were convicted after they attacked a couple who had offered them a lift.

Couple attacked after offering lift

According to court evidence, the male complainant had offered Ngidi, Gasa and a third unidentified accomplice a lift in his vehicle from one part of Mondlo to another. His girlfriend was also travelling with him at the time.

When the men reached their destination and were about to get out of the vehicle, they suddenly produced weapons, including a hammer, a wheel spanner and a knife. The couple was overpowered and robbed.

The attackers stole the male complainant’s shoes, cellphone and motor vehicle, as well as the female complainant’s cellphone. The assailants then drove off with the couple still inside the stolen vehicle.

Vehicle crashes during getaway

While driving, the vehicle struck a pothole, veered off the road and came to a stop in nearby bushes.

It was at this point that Ngidi and Gasa raped the female complainant.

A passer-by later approached the vehicle, discovered the complainants inside and found Ngidi still at the scene. He was apprehended immediately. Gasa and the third accomplice managed to flee.

Second suspect arrested weeks later

Several weeks later, the female complainant spotted Gasa travelling in a taxi in Mondlo. She alerted police and pointed him out, leading to his arrest.

The third accomplice remains at large.

During the trial, Ngidi pleaded not guilty but made formal admissions in terms of Section 220 of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977. Gasa pleaded guilty in terms of Section 112(2) of the same Act.

Victims describe lasting trauma

State prosecutor Kwazikhwakhe Sibiya led testimony from both complainants. Victim Impact Statements, compiled with the assistance of Court Preparation Officer Bheki Hopewell Sithole, were also presented to the court.

The male complainant told the court he was left both physically and emotionally scarred by the ordeal.

The female complainant said she continues to suffer severe trauma and no longer trusts men following the attack.

Court imposes heavy sentences

The court sentenced both Ngidi and Gasa to life imprisonment for rape and 15 years’ imprisonment for each of the two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances.

The robbery sentences will run concurrently with each other. Both men were also declared unfit to possess a firearm, and their names will be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.

NPA welcomes sentence

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the sentences, describing them as a clear demonstration of the justice system’s commitment to fighting crime, particularly gender-based violence and violent robberies.

The NPA said the harsh penalties highlight the justice system’s determination to protect victims and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.