| 2023/06/12 |
Media Statement
DURBAN – Ulundi Regional Court has sentenced 42-year-old Sthembiso Bongani Phakathi to two terms of life imprisonment after the court found him guilty on charges of rape, house robbery and aggravated robbery. Phakhathi committed the crimes between January and March 2021 at Mbhoshongweni area. Phakathi and his co-accused, who is still in the dock for the same offences, terrorized the community by committing robberies and rapes at gun and knife point. Phakhathi and his accomplice would approach the victims at their homes and prey on them before fleeing with their belongings. In one incident the duo forced entry, gang raped a 34-year-old woman who was sleeping inside her house and robbed her of her belongings including money. The matter was reported to Ulundi police and intensive investigations commenced. A dedicated task team was formed which led to the arrest of the accused. They duo made several court appearances and Phakathi pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two terms of life imprisonment for rape, 24 years for housebreakings and 15 years for robbery aggravated. Sentences will run concurrently. Ends
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