Man sentenced to life for raping 101-year-old in Limpopo

Zuko Komisa

Johannes Abram Mahlangu, 28, has received a life sentence plus three years for the rape and housebreaking of a 101-year-old woman in Limpopo, South Africa.
The attack occurred on the morning of 27 July 2024 in Sehlakoana village after Mahlangu forced his way into the victim’s securely locked home.
The conviction was secured by the Groblersdal FCS Unit using crucial DNA evidence, ensuring justice for the centenarian victim.

A 28-year-old man has been sentenced to life behind bars following the horrific rape of a 101-year-old woman in South Africa’s Limpopo province.

Johannes Abram Mahlangu was convicted and handed the life sentence, along with a further three years for housebreaking, in connection with the appalling incident that took place in the village of Sehlakoana, ZaaiPlaas.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed the details of the attack. The victim, who is 101, had gone to bed on the night of 26 July 2024, ensuring her doors and windows were securely locked.

However, in the early hours of the following morning, around 05:00 on 27 July 2024, an intruder forced entry into her bedroom while she slept.

According to Colonel Ledwaba, the suspect forcibly restrained the elderly woman, demanding her silence before proceeding to undress and rape her. Mahlangu then made his escape through a window after committing the brutal crime.

Following the assault, the victim immediately called for help, prompting her nephew to pursue the perpetrator.

A significant breakthrough in the case was secured by Warrant Officer Victoria Phala from the Groblersdal Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. Her meticulous work led to the successful tracking and arrest of the accused, as well as the crucial collection of DNA evidence that directly linked Mahlangu to the crime.

Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe publicly commended Warrant Officer Phala and everyone involved in the investigation for their dedication to securing a just outcome. General Hadebe further underscored the police’s commitment, stating that offences against the elderly would continue to be treated with the utmost seriousness.