Sexual predators lurk within the shadows of society. Preying on innocent women and girls. Showing no mercy when carrying out their sordid crimes. But there are those who refuse to turn a blind on rape.
In the pursuit of justice, police officers from Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, are clamping down on sex offenders.
On November 7, Madadeni Regional Court convicted and sentenced Sipho Wiseman Mthombeni to life imprisonment for rape, with another 15 years imprisonment for robbery.
The incident initially took place on May 2, 2013. A 44-year-old woman was at her place of residence in oSizweni, Section B, with her 10-year-old grandson.
Two men broke into the house. Armed with a knife and a gun, the two men raped the grandmother. Once they finish sexually assaulting her, they ransacked the house and stole cell phones, a DVD player and other items.
Once a case was opened at the oSizweni Police Station, the docket was transferred to the FCS Unit for investigation.
Colonel Thembeka Mbele, KwaZulu-Natal’s Media Centre at South African Police Service Corporate Communication and Marketing Department, explained the police officers put intense work into the investigations.
“Police worked tirelessly to find the suspect and through DNA they successfully managed to arrest the one suspect (Mthombeni), who was also wanted in another house robbery case.”
However, Colonel Mbele claims the second suspect is still on the run. “The police will not rest until he is arrested.”
Also read: Two public rape incidents in one week, how safe is your daughter?
In a separate incident, on November 7, Madadeni Regional Court sentenced Sizwe Jack Mazibuko to 15 years imprisonment for raping a 17-year-old girl.
The incident took place on November 8, 2016. Seeking ways to defend herself from possible crime, the victim went to the accused, requesting karate lessons. Little did she know, the man she viewed as a possible teacher, was a sexual predator.
Once the accused had her alone, he overpowered her, before assaulting and raping her.
Following the attack, the victim reported the matter to the Madadeni Police. The FCS Unit then taking charge of the matter and investigating the incident. The accused was subsequently arrested and charged for rape.
The investigation revealed this was not the first time the accused had committed this sordid crime. Colonel Mbele says the investigations revealed the accused was released on parole, just a year and a half ago for committing rape. Making this his second rape case,
Also read: Did you know there are men who think rape should be legal? Meet the MRM
Following the rape on his second victim, the accused’s bail application was successfully opposed. The life sentence handed out in his first conviction is reinstated. No longer will he walk the streets, preying on other women.
Well done to the FCS Unit’s efforts, ensuring the men are now in custody, unable to hurt more innocent women and girls.
