A DLANGEZWA man has been sentenced to eight years by the Mtunzini High Court for the rape of two local girls in 2013.

According to police, the victims were ambushed by Mandla Nkwanyana in May 2013 while walking to a study group. He allegedly threatened them with a knife before raping both girls without using a condom.

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The case went cold for several years until a breakthrough in 2018, when DNA evidence linked Nkwanyana to the crime. Detective Sgt Sanele Shoba subsequently traced him, leading to his arrest in July 2024 in the Empangeni central business district.

Nkwanyana’s bail application was denied, and he was later convicted in the Mtunzini High Court.

Police praised the outcome, describing the conviction as the result of meticulous investigative work and the courage of the victims.

“Detective Shoba’s dedication to justice is commendable. His tireless efforts to track down Nkwanyana and ensure he faced the consequences reflect his commitment to protecting the community,” a police source said.

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