The National Prosecuting Authority of South Africa

16/09/2026

FORMER PROSECUTOR SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS' IMPRISONMENT FOR ASSAULTING AND SEXUALLY ASSAULTING PARTNER

Upington, Northern Cape – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) notes the conviction and sentencing of a 40-year-old former Upington District Court prosecutor by the Upington Regional Court for sexual assault, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm (GBH), contravening a protection order, and driving under the influence of alcohol.
The identity of the accused cannot be disclosed, as doing so would indirectly reveal the identity of the complainant.

The accused, who was attached to the Upington Cluster in the Northern Cape, faced charges including two counts of r**e, sexual assault in contravention of section 5(1) of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 32 of 2007, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, contravening section 17(1)(a) of the Domestic Violence Act, 1998, by breaching a protection order, compelling or causing a child to witness a sexual offence, the unauthorised use of his employer's motor vehicle, and driving under the influence of alcohol.

On 15 September 2026, the court imposed the following sentences: Sexual assault: Six months' imprisonment. Assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm: Ten years' imprisonment, of which four years are suspended for five years on condition that the accused is not convicted of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, attempted murder, culpable homicide arising from an assault, or murder committed during the period of suspension. Contravention of a protection order: Twelve months' imprisonment. Driving under the influence of alcohol: Six months' imprisonment.

The court ordered that the sentences imposed for sexual assault and driving under the influence of alcohol run concurrently with the sentences imposed for assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm and contravening the protection order. The court further ordered that the suspension of the accused's driver's licence would not take effect.

On 17 July 2026, the court acquitted the accused on the two counts of r**e and the charge of compelling or causing a child to witness a sexual offence, finding that the State had not proved those charges beyond a reasonable doubt.

The matter arose from an incident that occurred on 13 November 2022 at the couple's residence in Paballelo, near Upington. According to evidence before the court, the complainant had been sleeping in preparation for her night shift when an argument ensued after she informed the accused that she wished to end their relationship. The accused accused her of infidelity and proceeded to assault and sexually assault his then 29-year-old life partner, a member of the South African Police Service (SAPS), while their two-year-old daughter was present in the home.
The complainant managed to escape when SAPS colleagues, who had arrived to collect her for duty, intervened. A criminal case was subsequently opened, and the accused was arrested. He first appeared in the Upington Magistrates' Court on 15 November 2022. The matter was postponed to 22 November 2022 for the gathering of bail information and a formal bail application. He remained in custody until he was later granted bail.
The investigation was conducted by the SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit.

During the trial, Control Prosecutor Charnill Kok led the State's case and presented evidence from several witnesses. These included SAPS members who were among the first responders and who testified about the complainant's physical and emotional state following the incident, as well as the accused's conduct when police officers attempted to intervene.

The State also presented a Victim Impact Statement compiled with the assistance of Court Preparation Officer Ashley Groenewald, detailing the profound effect of the incident on both the complainant and the minor child.
In addition, the State called a registered forensic nurse from Dr Harry Surtie Hospital in Upington, who testified regarding the J88 medico-legal examination and the injuries sustained by the complainant. The complainant herself also testified about the events that transpired on the day of the incident.

The NPA acknowledges the diligent efforts of Control Prosecutor Charnill Kok, Court Preparation Officer Ashley Groenewald, and members of the SAPS FCS Unit in ensuring that the matter was thoroughly investigated and prosecuted. The prosecution of this case demonstrates that allegations of criminal conduct are subjected to due process regardless of the position or occupation of the accused.

The NPA remains committed to prosecuting cases without fear, favour, or prejudice, irrespective of an accused person's status or standing in society. As the people's lawyers, the NPA continues to prioritise the effective prosecution of gender-based violence and femicide matters and remains steadfast in pursuing justice through fair, victim-centred, and evidence-based prosecutions.

Issued by:

Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division

16/09/2026

KOSTER MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT FOR R**E AND 15 YEARS FOR ROBBERY WITH AGGRAVATING CIRCUMSTANCES

Koster, North West- The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the sentence imposed by the Koster Regional court on Ompie Simons (49), who has been sentenced to life imprisonment for r**e and 15 years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances.

Evidence presented before the court established that the accused accosted the victim while she was jogging, grabbed her from behind, and stabbed her with a screwdriver before robbing her of her licensed fi***rm and cellphone. He then forced the victim to undress and r**ed her before fleeing the scene.

The matter was reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Koster, leading to an investigation that resulted in the accused’s arrest after information emerged that he had a fi***rm.

Acting on a search warrant, members of Koster SAPS searched the accused’s residence. Although the fi***rm was not recovered, police found a cellphone matching the description of the cellphone stolen from the victim.

The accused was subsequently charged with r**e and robbery with aggravating circumstances. The State successfully opposed bail, and he remained in custody throughout the trial. He pleaded not guilty to both charges.

State Prosecutors, Sangweni Zimema led evidence from several witnesses, including the investigating officer, Piet Olebogeng of Koster SAPS, resulting in the accused’s conviction on both counts.

During sentencing proceedings, the State urged the court to impose the prescribed minimum sentences, emphasis the gravity of the offences, the devastating impact on the victim, and the need to deter similar crimes.

In delivering sentence, the court highlighted the seriousness of the offences and the ongoing scourge of Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF). The court further underscored the criminal justice system’s responsibility to protect vulnerable members of society and hold perpetrators accountable.

The court agreed with the State that there were no substantial and compelling circumstances justifying a departure from the prescribed minimum sentence.

The accused was sentenced as follows: 15 years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances; and Life Imprisonment for r**e. The sentences will run concurrently. The accused was also declared unfit to possess a fi***rm.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr. Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentence and reaffirmed the justice system’s commitment to combating Gender-Based Violence and Femicide.

“This sentence sends a strong message that perpetrators of sexual violent crimes will be held accountable. The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring justice for victims and supporting the government’s efforts to eradicate GBVF.”

The NPA commends the collaborative efforts of the prosecution and law enforcement teams in securing this conviction and sentence.

The organisation remains committed to prosecuting perpetrators of GBVF and ensuring that victims of crime receive justice through an effective and victim-centred criminal justice system.

Ends.

Issued:
Lindiwe Mabasa
NPA Communication Officer
North West Division

16/09/2026

NPA SECURES 15-YEAR SENTENCE FOR MAN WHO BRUTALLY STABBED GIRLFRIEND IN UPINGTON

Upington, Northern Cape – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the successful prosecution and sentencing of 24-year-old Etienne Jijanie, who was sentenced to 15 years' direct imprisonment by the Upington Regional Court for the attempted murder of his 21-year-old girlfriend.

The conviction and sentence stem from a brutal attack committed on 30 May 2025. The court heard that after returning home from visiting the accused's cousin, Jijanie demanded food from the victim. When she explained that there was no food available, he became verbally abusive and told her to sell her body so they could buy food and ci******es.
Jijanie then assaulted the victim with an iron rod, fracturing her hand, before attacking her with a knife and stabbing her multiple times. The victim sustained serious injuries to her chest, back and arms and was rushed to hospital for urgent medical treatment. She survived the attack.
Following the incident, Jijanie was arrested and charged with attempted murder. He remained in custody until the finalisation of the matter.

During plea and sentencing proceedings, Jijanie pleaded guilty to the charge. In his plea explanation, he admitted to repeatedly stabbing the victim and acknowledged that he understood that his actions could have resulted in her death. Although he had consumed alcohol, he conceded that he was aware of his conduct at the time of the offence. He further admitted that his actions were unlawful and expressed remorse.

In aggravation of sentence, State Prosecutor Fridel du Plessis argued that the violent and brutal nature of the attack justified a substantial term of direct imprisonment. The State submitted that a lengthy custodial sentence was necessary, particularly given the prevalence of similar offences in the court's jurisdiction.

The prosecution further presented a Victim Impact Statement detailing the profound physical, emotional, and psychological consequences of the attack on the victim.

The court agreed with the State's submissions, emphasising the seriousness of the offence and the prevalence of gender-based violence in the region. Jijanie was accordingly sentenced to 15 years' direct imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a fi***rm.

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to combating gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) and ensuring that perpetrators of violence against women are held accountable.

This sentence sends a strong message that acts of violence within intimate relationships will be met with serious consequences and that the criminal justice system will continue to protect and uphold the rights and dignity of victims.

Issued by:

Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape Division

16/09/2026

18-YEAR SENTENCE FOR MAN WHO ATTEMPTED TO KILL FORMER GIRLFRIEND WITH A SPADE

Kakamas, Northern Cape – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the successful prosecution and sentencing of 37-year-old Terrance Markus, who was sentenced to 18 years' imprisonment, of which three years are suspended, for the attempted murder of his former girlfriend.
The sentence was imposed by the Kakamas Regional Court after Markus was convicted of attempted murder based on dolus eventualis. He was acquitted on a charge of r**e after the court found insufficient corroborative evidence to sustain a conviction on that count.

The court heard that on 13 July 2024, the 25-year-old complainant, who was residing with Markus at the time, was asleep when she was awakened by the sound of dishes being broken inside their home. When she questioned him about his behaviour, Markus became enraged and struck her on the head with a spade.
Following the assault, Markus went to the complainant's mother and told her, "Ek het jou kind dood gemaak" ("I have killed your child"). On his return home, he encountered the complainant as she was making her way to her aunt's house to seek assistance and ordered her to return home.

Two days later, the complainant's mother arrived at the residence accompanied by police officers. Although the complainant informed the police that Markus had assaulted her, she initially chose not to open a criminal case. She later sought medical treatment and discovered that Markus was also at the hospital. They subsequently returned home together.
The court further heard that on the evening of 16 July 2024, Markus demanded that the complainant engage in sexual in*******se with him. When she refused, explaining that she was still suffering from the head injury, he proceeded to have sexual in*******se with her without her consent.

On 18 July 2024, Markus was arrested in connection with a separate assault matter. Later that day, members of the complainant's family and police officers found her at home in a critical medical condition. She was rushed to hospital in Kakamas, where medical examinations revealed that she had sustained a depressed skull fracture because of the assault.

The complainant was subsequently transferred to Kimberley and remained hospitalised for approximately three weeks. Medical evidence presented during the trial revealed that the injury had become infected and that, had she not received urgent medical intervention when she did, the consequences could have been fatal.
Markus denied assaulting the complainant and claimed that she had fallen and sustained the injury. However, this version was rejected by the court considering the medical evidence and expert testimony presented by the State.

During the trial, the complainant initially elected to testify in open court in the presence of the accused. However, she became emotionally distressed while giving evidence, prompting the State to apply for her testimony to continue in terms of Section 158 of the Criminal Procedure Act.
Court Preparation Officer Kealeboga Lecage provided continuous support to the complainant throughout the proceedings, assisting her when she became overwhelmed and helping her regain composure to complete her testimony.

In aggravation of sentence, Prosecutor Mannini Setai argued that Markus had shown a complete disregard for the complainant's bodily integrity, particularly given the dangerous weapon used and the severity of the injuries inflicted. The State further submitted that Markus had previous convictions for violent offences and that his period in custody awaiting trial should not be afforded significant mitigating weight.
The prosecution also placed evidence before the court that the complainant had previously obtained a protection order against Markus in 2019. Her mother further testified about the history of abuse she had witnessed throughout the relationship.

In a Victim Impact Statement compiled by the Court Preparation Officer, the complainant described the lasting consequences of the attack. She continues to bear a 10-centimetre scar because of the injury and subsequent surgery and still requires further medical treatment, including the possible insertion of a plate. She also expressed her profound sense of betrayal that someone with whom she had shared an eight-year relationship could subject her to such extreme violence.
A Victim Impact Report compiled by the Department of Social Development further indicated that the complainant continues to experience symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, mood swings, and sleep deprivation. The report highlighted the significant impact of the incident on her self-esteem, trust in men and future relationships.

The State emphasised that gender-based violence remains a serious societal concern and argued that the sentence imposed should reflect the gravity of the offence, hold the accused accountable and serve as a deterrent to similar acts of violence.

In mitigation, the defence submitted that the court should deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, citing Markus's age, employment status at the time of the offence, financial responsibilities towards his 15-year-old child and the period he spent in custody awaiting trial. While the State conceded that substantial and compelling circumstances justified a departure from the prescribed minimum sentence, it maintained that any sentence imposed should adequately reflect the seriousness of the offence and the surrounding circumstances.

The Kakamas Regional Court ultimately sentenced Markus to 18 years' imprisonment, of which three years are suspended for five years on condition that he is not convicted of attempted murder committed during the period of suspension. He had previously been declared unfit to possess a fi***rm.

The NPA commends Prosecutor Mannini Setai and Court Preparation Officer Kealeboga Lecage for their dedication and professionalism in ensuring that the matter was effectively prosecuted and that the complainant received the necessary support throughout the criminal justice process.

The NPA remains unwavering in its commitment to combating gender-based violence and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable.

This sentence demonstrates that acts of severe violence against women will be met with serious consequences and underscores the criminal justice system's commitment to protecting victims and survivors.

Issued by:

Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson
Northern Cape

16/09/2026

NPA SECURES CONVICTION OF XAMDEBOO FARMER FOR HUMAN TRAFFICKING, R**E AND ASSAULT OF EMPLOYEES

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured the conviction 42-year-old of Xamdeboo, (formerly Aberdeen) farmer, Louis Stephanus Lategan, in the Eastern Cape Division of the High Court in Makhanda. Lategan was convicted on six counts of trafficking in persons, five counts of r**e, two counts of assault as a competent verdict on two of the r**e counts, three counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm to children, two of common assault on adult workers, one count of assaulting a child, as well as two counts of unlawful possession of more than 200 rounds of am******on.

The charges stem from offences committed on his remote farm, to which he lured young women seeking employment as au pairs, drugged them and r**ed them.

Evidence led in court revealed that the accused, who in 2020 lived alone on his farm after separating from his wife, advertised on Facebook for an au pair to work on his farm and take care of his minor children when they came to visit. He later also used an employment agency for the same purpose; however his real intentions were to acquire the presence of young women of the farm in order to sexually exploit them.

On different occasions between 2020 and 2023, young women, aged between 18 and 21 years of age, desperate for employment, responded to the advertisements and accepted the accused’s employment offers with the promise of paying them between R5000 and R30 000 for their services. The young women came from cities such as Bloemfontein, Emalahleni, Standerton, and Amanzimtoti. The accused, on different occasions, made the complainants consume alcohol or a drink laced with a drug that made them extremely drowsy, and they would find themselves naked on the following morning, with pain in their ge***al area.

Prosecution-guided investigations that began in 2023 also revealed physical abuse of some of the workers in the farm, with some assaulted with a broomstick, sjambok, kicking with feet and being pushed into water. During the marathon trial, which ran for more than 18 months, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Nickie Turner, led the evidence of 24 witnesses. The accused, who had pleaded not guilty, also called four witnesses in his defence and testified himself. The court only acquitted him on one count of r**e as the child complainant did not testify.

The case has been postponed to Monday, 21 September 2026, for sentencing proceedings.

The NPA remains steadfast in its efforts to combat gender-based violence and femicide and to ensure that victims and their families receive justice through the criminal justice system.

Issued by:

Luxolo Tyali
NPA Regional Spokesperson – Eastern Cape Division

16/09/2026

NPA SECURES TWO LIFE SENTENCES FOR SON WHO MURDERED FATHER AND ATTEMTED TO KILL MOTHER FOR FINANCIAL GAIN

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has secured the conviction and sentencing of 37-year-old Manqu Ndimphiwe in the Gauteng Division of the High Court in Johannesburg for the murder of his father, the attempted murder of his mother, and the unlawful possession of a fi***rm and am******on.

The court sentenced Ndimphiwe to two terms of life imprisonment, one for the murder of his father, Mawethu Manqu, and a second for the attempted murder of his mother. In addition, he was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment for the unlawful possession of a fi***rm and three years’ imprisonment for the unlawful possession of am******on.

The convictions arise from a tragic incident that occurred on 31 January 2023 at the family home in Leondale, Germiston. On that day, Ndimphiwe's parents returned home during the early afternoon. As they stopped at the gate of their residence, Ndimphiwe approached their vehicle armed with a fi***rm and deliberately opened fire on them.

His father sustained fatal gunshot wounds and was declared dead at the scene. His mother was also shot, with the bullet entering through her cheek and exiting through her chin. She survived the attack after receiving emergency medical treatment.

During sentencing proceedings, State Advocate William Makwela argued for a substantial sentence, highlighting the gravity of the offences and the fact that the accused had targeted his own parents. The State further submitted that an additional life sentence for the attempted murder count was warranted, given the domestic relationship between the accused and the complainant.

The State successfully argued that the attack was premeditated and motivated by financial gain. Evidence before the court showed that Ndimphiwe intended to benefit from his parents' wealth, pension benefits, and other assets.

In aggravation of sentence, the accused's mother and sister testified about the devastating impact of the crimes on the family. They expressed their fear of the accused and urged the court to impose a severe sentence.

The presiding judge agreed with the State's submissions and exercised the court's discretion to impose a further life sentence for the attempted murder of the accused's mother. The court found that the close familial relationship between the accused and the complainant constituted compelling circumstances justifying life imprisonment for the attempted murder count.

The NPA commends State Advocate William Makwela, the prosecution team, and the investigating officer for their diligent work in ensuring justice for the victims and their family. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the offences and sends a strong message that violent crime, particularly crimes committed against family members for personal gain, will be met with the full force of the law.

The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to holding perpetrators of violent crime accountable and ensuring justice for victims and their families. Acts of violence committed against loved ones, especially those driven by greed and financial motives, represent a profound betrayal of trust and will continue to be prosecuted vigorously.

Issued by:
Magaboke Mohlatlole
NPA Communications Officer – Gauteng Division, Johannesburg

16/09/2026

16/09/2026

NOTICE TO ALL APPLICANTS: Aspirant Prosecutor Programme

Please note that the venue for Klerksdorp (Ref: APTKLE27) is City On A Hill.

15/09/2026

PRESS RELEASE
15 SEPTEMBER 2026

THE NATIONAL PROSECUTING AUTHORITY (NPA) WITHDRAWS CHARGES AGAINST THE NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE SOUTH AFRICAN POLICE SERVICE, GENERAL FANNIE MASEMOLA

The National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Adv Andy Mothibi, has formally issued instructions that charges be withdrawn against the National Commissioner of Police, General Fannie Masemola. The instructions follow after a review of the charges laid against him and subsequent arrest by the Investigating Directorate Against Corruption (IDAC), for the violation of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

In reviewing the NDPP, Adv Mothibi invoked Section 179 (5) (c) of the Constitution read with Section 22(2) (b) of the National Prosecuting Authority Act 32 of 1998. These provisions empower the NDPP to intervene in any prosecution process where the NPA policy directives are not complied with. The NPA directives provide, amongst others, that there must be reasonable prospects of success before a matter is enrolled for trial.
The NDPP considered evidence gathered by IDAC through investigations. He also considered a report by the Case Assessment Panel together with a report of an independent Senior Counsel who was appointed to be part of the case assessment process.

Following on the review process, the NDPP is satisfied that there are no reasonable prospects of a successful prosecution against the National Commissioner on the PFMA charges. The NDPP has subsequently issued instructions that the charges be withdrawn.

Adv Andy Mothibi said “Enrolling a case for prosecution where evidence is not sufficient to sustain a successful prosecution is not in the public interest. A prosecution that proceeds while evidence is insufficient to sustain a successful prosecution and omits material exculpatory considerations, does not accord with the NPA mandate”

The NDPP will report the matter to the IDAC Judge and avail the Case Assessment Panel report to investigate the circumstances relating to the prosecution team’s assessment of the evidence, the enrolment of the matter, and the application of the law, to determine if there is any misconduct.

Further to the process of assessing and reviewing the matter, as stipulated above, the NPA also received representations from the lawyers representing the National Commissioner. The representations were considered by the NDPP. However, since the decision to withdraw the matter was already taken based on the assessment and review process above, the representations did not have a further bearing on this matter.

The prosecution team will make arrangements for the National Commissioner to appear in court for the purpose of withdrawing the case against him.

The process of assessing and reviewing all the cases at IDAC will continue as part of the IDAC Reset Programme.


Enquiries:
Kaizer Kganyago
NPA – National Spokesperson
082 306 8888

15/09/2026