Rapists from Morgenzon get 18 years in jail
The SAPS conducted an intensive investigation, making a breakthrough when they arrested all three culprits on the same day of the incident.
A trio of rapists will spend their first Christmas in jail after a gang rape in 2018.
According to a statement from the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison, a 16-year-old girl was gang-raped inside a vehicle at a tavern in Morgenzon five years ago.
It was heard in court that Sikhumbuzo Jacob Hlophe (38), Thokozani David Hlophe (28) and Thokozane Obert Zwane (30) raped her in December 2018.
The incident was reported to police, and the case was assigned to the Standerton Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit.
The SAPS conducted an intensive investigation, making a breakthrough when they arrested all three culprits on the same day of the incident.
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They were found guilty and sentenced to 18 years of direct imprisonment each by the Secunda Regional Court on December 4.
The provincial commissioner of the SAPS, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, welcomed the sentence and commended officers for their quick response.
“The sentence came at a time when the world has embarked on the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children Campaign,” Manamela said.
“The sentence should serve as a deterrent and lesson for community members to refrain from any forms of abuse.”
