Mbombela – Multiple rape accused 21-year-old Siyabonga Lawrence Ngwenya on Thursday appeared before the Boschfontein Regional Court in Nkomazi, Mpumalanga, where he was sentenced to 22 years in prison for raping two minors.
Ngwenya, who was convicted of raping a seven-year-old girl in KaMhlushwa in October 2015 and an 11-year-old girl in Mzinti Trust in July 2021, was sentenced to 20 years for the first count and 22 years for the second count.
However, the sentences will run concurrently – meaning Ngwenya will serve an effective 22 years.
The court heard that the delay in concluding the matter was because the accused was a minor – about 16 years old – when he committed the crimes.
The case was registered and held in abeyance while the accused was in the care of a guardian until he became an adult.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli said the accused’s name will be entered into the Register of Sexual Offenders.
He will no longer be allowed to work with children.
“We hope the sentences will serve as a deterrent to others who may consider emulating the actions of the accused,” Colonel Mdhluli said.
SA Police Service (SAPS) Mpumalanga Commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi also welcomed the sentences meted out to Ngwenya.
“The SAPS is committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society, especially children, from such heinous crimes,” said Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi.
“We commend the dedicated work of the investigating team, and we trust that this sentence will send a strong message that such criminal behavior will not be tolerated.”
