THE Vryheid Regional Court has sentenced Sbongakonke Ngidi (23) and Philani Gasa (23) each to life imprisonment for rape plus 30 years for two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances.

The offences occurred in October 2023 in the Mondlo area, and involved an adult male complainant and his girlfriend.

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National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson KZN division, Natasha Ramkisson-Kara, said on the day of the incident, the male complainant offered three men, Ngidi, Gasa and an unidentified accomplice, a lift in his car from one part of Mondlo to another. His girlfriend was also in the car.

“When it was time for the men to alight, they produced weapons, including a hammer, wheel spanner and knife, subdued the couple and robbed them,” said Ramkisson-Kara.

“The robbers took the man’s shoes, cellphone and car, and the woman’s cellphone. They then drove off in the stolen vehicle with the two complainants still inside. While driving, the vehicle hit a pothole, veered off the road, and came to a stop in the bushes. Ngidi and Gasa then raped the female complainant.”

Ramkisson-Kara said a passer-by approached the vehicle, found the complainants and Ngidi inside, and Ngidi was apprehended at the scene.

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“Gasa and the third accomplice fled. A few weeks later, the female complainant spotted Gasa in a taxi in Mondlo, alerted the police and pointed him out, leading to his arrest. The third accomplice remains at large,” she said.

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

Prosecutor Kwazikhwakhe Sibiya led evidence from both complainants. The State also presented victim impact statements.

“The male complainant described being physically and emotionally scarred by the ordeal. The female complainant said she continues to suffer trauma from the incident and no longer trusts men,” added Ramkisson-Kara.

The court ordered that the sentences run concurrently. Both men were declared unfit to possess a firearm, and their names will be entered on the National Register for Sex Offenders.

“The NPA welcomes these sentences and views them as a clear demonstration of its resolve in the fight against crime, particularly gender-based violence and violent robberies. Such harsh penalties underscore the justice system’s determination to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable,” said Ramkisson-Kara.

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