Sangoma sentenced for rape and sexual assault of minors
NEBO
The Nebo Regional Court has delivered a powerful verdict, sentencing a 39-year-old traditional healer from Mokgaladi village to life imprisonment, with an additional 10 years, for the rape and sexual assault of two minor girls, aged 14 and 16. Despite pleading not guilty, the accused was convicted following a trial that exposed his heinous betrayal of trust.
On 10 February 2024, the accused visited the victims’ home in Mokgaladi village, claiming the girls were possessed by evil spirits and required a cleansing ritual. While their mother was sent to fetch water, he exploited her absence. He instructed the 16-year-old victim to lie on a mat, where he raped her, stopping only when he heard the mother’s footsteps. He also sexually assaulted the 14-year-old by touching her inappropriately during the so-called ritual. The victims bravely reported the incidents to their mother, who promptly filed a case, leading to the accused’s arrest.
State Advocate Shumani Martin Tshishonga, in a compelling argument, emphasized that no substantial or compelling circumstances warranted deviating from the mandatory life sentence. The court agreed, denouncing the accused’s actions as a gross violation of the ethical standards expected of a traditional healer entrusted by the victims’ family.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) hailed the sentence as a triumph for justice. Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv. Ivy Thenga declared, “Sexual violence violates the constitutional rights to dignity and privacy. The NPA remains steadfast in prosecuting such cases with unwavering resolve.” She also commended Advocate Tshishonga and all stakeholders for their relentless efforts in securing this conviction.
