The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentencing of Jorge Tivane (21), who was handed two terms of life imprisonment by the Lenasia Regional Court for the rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl in Kliptown.

The 21-year-old was identified by members of the community and subsequently arrested by the police after it emerged that he was the last person seen walking with the girl towards the area where her body was later discovered.

Tivane was convicted on charges of rape and murder following an incident on December 19, 2022. Investigations led by Sergeant Mofokeng from Kliptown Police Station revealed that the girl was last seen walking with Tivane towards a veld.

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She was later discovered strangled to death. DNA evidence recovered from a piece of clothing found on the deceased’s body positively linked Tivane to the crime.

On July 3, 2025, Tivane pleaded guilty to both rape and murder.

During sentencing, State Prosecutor Tumi Maunye emphasised the brutal and premeditated nature of the offence, noting that the victim was a vulnerable minor with mental challenges.

He highlighted the profound and unending trauma inflicted on the victim’s family and the accused’s lack of remorse, calling for the maximum prescribed sentences.

“The court accepted the State’s submissions and sentenced Tivane to life imprisonment for murder and life imprisonment for the rape of the minor.

The NPA remains committed to prosecuting crimes against vulnerable members of society and ensuring justice for victims of gender-based violence and child abuse,” NPA communications officer Magaboke Mohlatlole said.