The NPA said Happy Mukwevho, working with accomplices, would break into women’s homes while they were asleep, rape them and steal their money, cellphones and other valuables.
THE HIGH Court in Johannesburg sentenced Happy Mukwevho to five life terms and an additional 222 years imprisonment after convicting him on charges including rape, kidnapping and robbery with aggravating circumstances.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said Mukwevho was also sentenced for housebreaking with intent to rape, attempted robbery, possession of a dangerous weapon and pointing of what is believed to be a firearm.
“The court ordered the sentences to run concurrently and declared the accused (Mukwevho) unfit to possess a firearm,” said NPA Gauteng regional spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane.
She said in February 2018 and in August 2020, Mukwevho unleashed his reign of terror in the community of Diepsloot.
“Mukwevho committed these offences in the company of his friends. Their mode of operation included breaking into the complainants’ places while they were asleep. They used a side cutter to break the chain,” Mjonondwane said.
“They would rape the women and steal money, cellphones and other valuables. One of the complainants was removed from her place and taken to a dumping site where she was raped.”
Mukwevho was known to some of the victims.
“Mukwevho was arrested on November 1, 2021. He was linked by DNA, which was collected from the women who reported the rapes timeously to the police,” said Mjonondwane.
In arguing for a harsh sentence, senior State advocate Adele de Klerk argued that none of Mukwevho’s circumstances were substantial and compelling.
De Klerk submitted that Mukwevho was “a hazardous person” and should be removed permanently from society.
“The NPA extends its gratitude to advocate Adele de Klerk and investigating officer Warrant Officer Pule Chauke for ensuring that the accused faces the full might of the law,” said Mjonondwane.
“We hope that this sentence will send a clear message that crimes of this nature will not be tolerated.”
