The Moretele Regional Court has handed down a 20-year direct imprisonment sentence to Andries Mohwase (31) for the rape of his 60-year-old mother and declared him unfit to possess a firearm. Mr Mohwase’s conviction stems from an incident that occurred on the evening of July 17, 2021, at their home in Stinkwater.
In a statement issued on 1 March 2024, Mr Henry Mamothame, NPA Regional Spokesperson, North West Division, said according to the court proceedings, Mr Mohwase found his mother cooking in the kitchen and proceeded to drag her to the bedroom where he raped her. Fortunately, the victim managed to escape and promptly reported the incident to his younger sister, who accompanied her to the police station to file a formal complaint. Mohwase was subsequently arrested on July 18, 2021, and the court denied him bail. He pleaded guilty to the offence.
During the aggravation of sentence phase, State Prosecutor Patricia Matlala highlighted the profound shock and distress caused by the incident to the victim, her family, and the wider community. Matlala urged the court to consider the gravity of the offence committed. Magistrate Gilbert Sono agreed with the state’s arguments and expressed his disgust at the accused for his reprehensible actions.
Dr Rachel Makhari, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, commended the efforts of the prosecutor, Warrant Officer Matthews Motiang from the South African Police Service (SAPS), and Court Preparation Officer Ephania Moselakgomo for their diligent work in preparing the complainant for court proceedings. Dr. Makhari also recognized the contributions of other role players who ensured that the accused was sentenced to a substantial jail term. She emphasized the urgent need for stronger advocacy against the abuse of women, children, and the elderly.
