Three gang rapists get life
GUILTY: Sylvester Boitumelo Monabe, 24, Lebogang Paul Mongale, 34, and McDonald Modisapudi, 28, were each sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of rape, as well as a further three years each for kidnapping in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court. community does not lose hope in the justice system.”
She pointed out that the victim also had to be considered when sentencing. “Her emotions and the emotional trauma she had to endure must be taken into account. She was physically injured. She was raped by more than one accused. There is a report by State regarding her emotional state.”
Kgopa stated that the nature of the crime, the personal circumstances of the accused and the interests of the community had been taken into account by the court when deciding on the sentence.
“The law is clear that the sentence for rape must be life imprisonment unless there are special circumstances. This court, however, does not find any substantial or compelling circumstances to deviate from the prescribed sentence.
“We are dealing with people who conducted themselves with absolute disregard for the sanctity of human life or the integrity of the victim. They all three acted in a manner highly unacceptable to society.”
She added that there was no reason why she should deviate from the number of years that the accused should be sentenced to.
“Trying to find a balance in all the circumstances, I find that the accused have to be removed from society.”
Advocate Victor Thetele appeared on behalf of the State, while the accused were represented by Barend Titus from Legal Aid.