Serial rapist Vutomi Makamu sentenced to life imprisonment

By Jade Mthombeni

On Wednesday, the Limpopo Thohoyandou High Court has convicted and sentenced Vutomi Jafta Makamu (32), to life imprisonment on four counts of rape.

The court heard that between 2012 and 2018, in Xikundu village on the outskirts of Malamulele, the accused threatened four victims (aged 11-15 years), with a knife and dragged them into the bushes and raped them.

The other victim was carrying firewood when the accused forced himself on her. The accused pleaded not guilty to the offences and was found guilty as charged, said Limpopo Division NPA Regional Spokesperson, Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi.

“During the aggravation of the sentence, state Advocate, Nnyambeni Nekhambele told the court that Makamu is a heartless person, who was raping minor girls. He further argued that the offences are prevalent in this jurisdiction. He concluded by pleading with the court to impose a life sentence.

“During sentencing, Judge Nare Frans Kgomo said that the accused showed that he is heartless, and has no respect for women and children. He further said, the court is duty bound to protect women and children. This would send a strong message that this type of offence cannot be tolerated, and the accused should be punished for these horrible deeds.

“The Director of Public Prosecutions, Advocate, Ivy Thenga lauded the sentence and applauds the good work of Advocate, Nnyambeni Nekhambele, and Warrant Officer, Dumani Chabalala, for ensuring that justice is served”, concluded Malabi-Dzhangi.