Coach Edwin Soko faces sentencing for child molestation

The coach was found guilty of all nine counts laid against him, which included charges of sexual exploitation, sexual grooming, and sexual assault.

1 hour ago

Lindokuhle Ndhlovu 1 minute read

Soccer coach Edwin Soko is expected to appear in the eMalahleni Regional Court today for sentencing, following his conviction on child molestation charges related to incidents which reportedly occurred in late 2023.

This comes after his court appearance on July 23, when his sentencing was postponed due to the absence of his attorney.

While Soko has remained in custody, community advocates such as gender-based violence activist and All Voices Matter founder, Abongile Mcoki, expressed their wishes for the case to be finalised and justice served for the victims.

“Our hearts are tired. This case has been delayed so many times, and the victims deserve closure and peace,” Mcoki said. “I’m praying for fairness, for truth, and for a decision that finally brings justice and healing to everyone who has been hurting.”

The coach was found guilty on all nine counts laid against him, which included charges of sexual exploitation, sexual grooming, and the sexual assault of boys aged between eight and 13 by the time of the incidents, which reportedly occurred in September and October 2023.

Today’s sentencing follows another decision made by the court on August 5, 2025, where another coach, Sibusiso Gama, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with five years suspended, after he was found guilty of molesting minor boys during soccer camps.

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