South African Man Sentenced to 42 Life Sentences for Raping Girls as Young as Nine
A shocking case in South Africa has come to a close as Nkosinathi Phakathi, 40, has been handed 42 life sentences for 90 counts of rape, including young girls aged nine. The crimes took place in Ekurhuleni, east of Johannesburg, over a period of nine years.
Judge Lesego Makolomakwe emphasized the severity of the crimes, stating that the courts have a duty to impose harsh sentences for such heinous acts, especially against vulnerable girls. Some victims were assaulted while on their way to school or work, and others in their own homes.
Phakathi, who attempted to flee and was subsequently shot by the police during his arrest, displayed a remorseful demeanor in court. The case sheds light on South Africa’s high rates of violent crime, with rape and murder prevalent issues. Despite efforts by women’s rights advocates, many believe the government is not doing enough to address violence against women.
It is a sobering reminder of the ongoing fight against gender-based violence in South Africa and the need for justice and protection for all individuals.