The Carolina Regional Court.
The Carolina Regional Court has sentenced Nkosinathi Ivan “Bhombas” Nkosi (33) to 15 years’ direct imprisonment for the rape of a 20-year-old woman in Badplaas.
According to the spokesperson for National Prosecuting Authority in Mpumalanga Monica Nyuswa, the incident occurred on December 04,2022 at the Four Rand Tavern in Badplaas.
The complainant, who was intoxicated at the time, was on her way to the toilet when Nkosi followed her.
“He threatened her with a knife, forcefully dragged her away, and took her to his residence, where he raped her. The victim reported the ordeal to her boyfriend, who alerted the police. Nkosi was arrested and later denied bail,” she said.
Nyuswa also said, in court, Nkosi pleaded not guilty and claimed the sexual act was consensual. However, Regional Prosecutor Makhosonke Mashinini led compelling evidence, including the complainant’s testimony, the first report, and a J88 medical report.
“The court rejected Nkosi’s version as incredible and accepted the State’s case. Addressing the court, Mashinini emphasised that rape is a scourge that undermines and destroys the existence of women in society. He added that women in South Africa should be free to move and enjoy social spaces without fear, urging the court to impose a suitable sentence,” explained Nyuswa.
During sentencing, the court found no substantial or compelling circumstances to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence.
Nkosi was sentenced to 15 years’ direct imprisonment. Furthermore, the court ordered that his name be entered into the National Register for Sexual Offenders and declared him unfit to possess a firearm.
