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Carolina man jailed for 15 years for rape
The Carolina Regional Court has convicted and sentenced Linda Nicholas Masango (25) to 15 years' direct imprisonment for the rape of an adult woman.
The National Prosecuting Authority's (NPA) provincial spokesperson, Monica Nyuswa, said the incident occurred on August 28, 2022, when the complainant visited a tavern in Carolina. She met the accused on the day.
'After socialising and consuming alcohol together, the accused began making romantic advances toward her. He later accompanied the complainant as she walked home. Along the way, he forced her into a ditch, raped her, and fled the scene.'
Nyuswa said the complainant immediately reported the matter to the police, and the accused was traced and arrested.
'In court, the accused claimed he was intoxicated and denied raping the complainant.'
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However, State Prosecutor Makhosonke Mashinini led compelling evidence, including the complainant's testimony and a J88 medical report, which confirmed injuries to the victim's genitals. The court found his account credible and rejected the accused's version.
Mashinini argued that women in South Africa have the right to move freely and safely in public spaces and to enjoy themselves without fear of violence or harassment.
He urged the court to impose the prescribed minimum sentence.
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Nyuswa said in sentencing the court acknowledged the alarming levels of gender-based violence in the country and emphasised the importance of protecting vulnerable members of society. The accused was sentenced to 15 years of direct imprisonment and was also declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.
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