The Mkobola Regional Court has sentenced 32-year-old Bongani Norman Moyo to 20 years’ imprisonment for rape and common robbery. The conviction was handed down on Thursday, 19 June 2025, following a harrowing incident that occurred in September 2020.
Details of the Crime
According to court records, the victim reported that on 4 September 2020, at approximately 17:30, she left her home to visit Kwagga Mall. On her way back, she was approached by a man she knew as “Moses,” who expressed romantic interest in her. She rejected his advances, and he then inquired about her destination. She informed him that she was heading to a nearby tavern.
Later that evening, the victim was at the tavern with two friends when she noticed Moyo was also present with his own companions. When the establishment closed, the complainant and her friends moved to another tavern, where Moyo followed them. The two groups remained seated separately.
At around 02:00, the victim realized her friends had left. Moyo then offered to escort her home, and she agreed. However, while walking through an open field, Moyo allegedly grabbed her by her clothes, assaulted her, and forced her to the ground. He then removed her underwear and raped her.
After the assault, Moyo reportedly stole R600 from the victim and left her at the scene. While she was still searching for her underwear, he returned and raped her a second time before fleeing.
Arrest and Sentencing
Moyo was later traced and arrested. The court found him guilty on two charges:
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Count 1 – Rape: 20 years’ imprisonment
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Count 2 – Common Robbery: 12 months’ imprisonment
The sentences will run concurrently. Additionally, the court declared Moyo legally unfit to possess a firearm.