A 29-year-old Limpopo man has been sentenced to eight life sentences and 100 years in prison for several charges brought against him, including eight counts of rape which also include the rape of a 13-year-old girl.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Regional Spokesperson, Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi, Ndivhuwo Tshisikhawe terrorised at least four villages in Limpopo in the period between March 2015 and July 2017.

He was convicted in the Thohoyandou High Court on two counts of housebreaking with intent to rape, three counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances, three counts of kidnapping, and eight counts of rape.

“He would enter the homestead of the victims, threaten the victims with a knife, and rob them of money amounting to R1400, bank cards and cell phones. After the arrest, Tshisikhawe escaped from lawful custody on 19 July 2017 and was arrested after three weeks. The accused pleaded not guilty to the offences, and he further told the court that he has nothing to say.

“During the aggravation of the sentence, state Adocate Nduvheni Mulangaphuma told the court that Tshisikhawe is a heartless person, who was raping young women and minor children. He further argued that the offences are prevalent in these jurisdictions. He concluded by pleading with the court to impose a life sentence,” Malabi-Dzhangi said.

She added that the court found in the state’s favour and expressed intolerance at Tshisikhawe’s lack of remorse.

“During sentencing, Judge Nare Frans Kgomo said the accused showed that he is heartless, and has no respect for women. He further said the court is duty bound to protect women and children sending a clear message that this type of offence cannot be tolerated and that the accused should be punished for these horrible deeds. The court will show no mercy.

“The NPA applauds advocate Mulangaphuma and investigating officer, Manthakha Khorommbi Patrick, from Family Violence Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit in Thohoyandou, for the good work,” Malabi-Dzhangi said.

Source: South African Government News Agency