Breyten court hands double life terms to neighbour convicted of raping and killing six‑year‑old

A Breyten court on 21 August 2026 sentenced 21‑year‑old Sifiso Sibiloane to two life terms after he pleaded guilty to the rape and murder of six‑year‑old Princess Rossouw, a crime that occurred at a farm in the Nkangala District on 7 March.

How the attack unfolded

According to court testimony, Sibiloane, who lived next door to the child, lured Princess into his room with the promise of sweets. He then took her to a nearby maize field, where he raped and strangled her.

Confession and evidence

Sibiloane surrendered to police after the attack and led investigators back to the crime scene. During the trial he pleaded guilty and, through his legal representative, admitted that he panicked when the child said she was in pain and would tell her parents. He told the court he throttled her to death and fled, leaving her body hidden in the crops.

The prosecution presented a crime scene photo album, a post‑mortem report confirming strangulation and Victim Impact Statements from the parents.

Sentence and court orders

The court imposed two life sentences and ordered that Sibiloane’s name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders. The court also declared him permanently unfit to work with children and confirmed his automatic disqualification from owning a firearm.

Reaction from prosecutors

National Prosecuting Authority Regional Spokesperson Monica Nyuswa welcomed the sentence. She said:

“The NPA welcomes the sentence as a clear affirmation of the courts’ commitment to protecting children and imposing severe penalties on perpetrators of violent crimes against the most vulnerable members of society. The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring justice for victims of sexual offences and gender‑based violence and to safeguarding the rights and dignity of children.”

Impact on the family

Victim Impact Statements read in court recalled Princess as a vibrant, loving girl who loved to sing.