In a significant judgement that has brought a semblance of justice to the families of the victims, two rapists have been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of their appalling crimes against an elderly woman and a minor child.
The North West Regional Court, sitting at the Atamelang Regional Court, was the site of this profound moment as Tlotlano Simon Monnatshitlo, 50, received a life sentence for the rape of 82-year-old Kelatlegile Angelina Phaka, who tragically passed away before the trial could commence. The case dates back to September 21, 2012, when Monnatshitlo, then 37, along with two accomplices, invaded the victim’s home in Madibogo village, subjecting her to unspeakable acts of violence.
According to Sivenathi Gunya, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) North West division, after the assault, Phaka bravely reported the crime to her neighbours, prompting police involvement and subsequent medical examination. DNA evidence collected from the scene linked Monnatshitlo to the crime, while one of his accomplices passed away before facing justice, leaving Monnatshitlo to stand trial alone. Notably, he pleaded not guilty throughout the process.
During the trial, the prosecution faced an additional hurdle: Phaka’s death meant her testimony was not available. However, the State successfully argued for the inclusion of her hearsay statement, ensuring her voice echoed in the courtroom. With the assistance of the testimonies from two State witnesses and corroborating DNA evidence, Monnatshitlo was convicted, with the presiding judge affirming the severity of the crime and imposing the mandatory life sentence.
Advocate Edward Manicus, representing the State, highlighted the vulnerability of the victim, stressing that such heinous acts against the defenceless warrant the court’s strict adherence to justice. As part of the conviction, Monnatshitlo’s name will be added to the National Register for Sex Offenders, ensuring he remains under scrutiny for his reprehensible actions.
In a separate but equally disturbing case, a 27-year-old man, also convicted of rape, received a life sentence at the Nquthu Regional Court in KwaZulu-Natal for attacking a 10-year-old girl in December 2022. The NPA’s Natasha Ramkisson-Kara revealed that the young girl was assaulted in her home while having breakfast, highlighting the pervasive threat of violence against minors. She managed to escape to her sister, who confronted the attacker but he fled the scene.
This case was reported immediately, leading to the girl receiving essential medical care. Her testimony indicated a desire for the court to ensure the accused could not harm other children, as she bravely faced the psychological aftermath of the incident. The court obliged, mandating that his name be added to the National Register for Sex Offenders and declaring him unfit to possess a firearm.