Cape Town – A former employee of the Aquarius Platinum Mine in Rustenburg was sentenced to four terms of life imprisonment plus an additional 45 years by the high court in Palm Ridge, Johannesburg this week, the National Prosecuting Authority said on Wednesday.
Thapelo Matsehi, 31, faced 11 charges, which included rape, murder, kidnapping, and attempted rape. He was found guilty on 10 counts in June.
“Matsehi’s crimes were committed against victims with whom he was closely acquainted,” the NPA said in a statement.
His best friend’s sister, a neighbour’s child, and a former colleague were among the victims.
During the sentencing proceedings, the State argued that Matsehi was a confirmed serial rapist and serial murderer who had shown no remorse.
“State Advocate Steven Rubin led the evidence of one of the victim’s family, who told the court how Matsehi continued to threaten her family after his conviction. The mother whose daughter was killed by Matsehi testified about the emotional pain of losing her daughter and how the convict continued adding to the pain already inflicted upon her by threatening to come after her upon his release.”
African News Agency