Limpopo man jailed for 25 years for 2014 rape and robbery after 12-year case

Sentence handed down after 12-year wait for justice

A 28-year-old man from Limpopo has been sentenced to an effective 25 years’ direct imprisonment for raping and robbing an 18-year-old woman during an attack in Hlanganani in September 2014.

Court ruling and charges

The Giyani Magistrate Court in Mopani District sentenced Nhlanhla Makhubele on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The court imposed 10 years’ imprisonment for rape and 15 years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances, resulting in an effective 25-year term.

Details of the 2014 attack

Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said the incident occurred on 28 September 2014 when the 18-year-old victim was at a bar lounge in Ndengeza RDP Section, Hlanganani. According to Mashaba, Makhubele allegedly grabbed the woman, assaulted and stabbed her with a broken bottle, then dragged her into nearby bushes where he raped her multiple times.

He then allegedly robbed her of her shoes, jacket and cellphone before fleeing, Mashaba said.

Investigation and arrests

Mashaba said the case was investigated by Sergeant Vutomi Precious Nkuna of the Giyani FCS Unit. Makhubele was arrested the day after the incident but later failed to attend court and a warrant of arrest was issued. He was re-arrested in March 2025 and remained in custody until sentencing.

Police response

Acting provincial police commissioner Major General Jan Scheepers welcomed the sentence. He said:

“We welcome this lengthy sentence which reflects the seriousness of gender-based violence and violent crime. I commend Sergeant Vutomi Nkuna for her perseverance and thorough investigation that ensured justice was served even after 12 years. His incarceration will be exemplary to would-be perpetrators that crime does not pay,”