Nelspruit Sexual Offences Court in South Africa has sentenced a 42-year-old pastor, Dumisani Morris Khumalo, to life imprisonment for the rape of a 14-year-old girl in 2020.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) DPP Mpumalanga Regional spokesperson, Monica Nyuswa, in a statement on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, said: “The assault had adverse effects on the victim, including a decline in her academic performance, fear of being alone, and a previous suicide attempt.
“The court’s ruling delivered today underscores the serious nature of sexual offences against children and the commitment to ensuring justice for victims.
“The incident occurred on 25 July 2020, when the victim was on her way to the shop with a friend in Sifunindlela, located in the KaBokweni
district.
“Khumalo offered the girls a lift in his vehicle. After dropping off the friend to buy something at the shop, Khumalo manipulated the situation by driving past the store, making a U-turn, and ultimately parking at a playground, where he proceeded to rape the victim.
“In the aftermath of the attack, the victim managed to escape and went to a neighbour, where she reported the horrific event. Following her disclosure, the accused was apprehended by the police.
“During the trial, Khumalo pleaded not guilty and attempted to discredit the victim, portraying her as someone intent on destroying his reputation.
“However, State Prosecutor John Mahlwele presented compelling evidence, including testimonies from the victim, an eyewitness, and medical reports, which the court found credible.
“Additionally, a victim impact statement revealed the profound effects the assault had on the victim, including a decline in her academic performance, fear of being alone, and a previous suicide attempt.
“Before sentencing, Magistrate Recardo Cloete remarked on Khumalo’s lack of remorse throughout the trial. He asserted that there were no justifiable reasons to deviate from the minimum sentence of life imprisonment mandated by law for such a grievous crime.
“Khumalo was thus sentenced to life imprisonment, with an order for his name to be added to the National Register of Sexual Offenders, rendering him unfit to work with children.
“The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) expressed satisfaction with the sentence, emphasizing its unwavering commitment to prosecuting cases related to Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide.
“This case serves as a stark reminder of the need to protect vulnerable individuals in society and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.”
Photo by Bulelwa Ginindza