85-Year Prison Term for Serial Rapist and Burglar
A South African court has sentenced 33-year-old Sabelo Khumalo to 85 years in prison for a series of brutal attacks on women. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) praised the harsh penalty, which reflects the severity of his crimes.
A Two-Year Spree of Violence
From January 2021 to September 2023, Khumalo terrorized the Ntambamhlophe area near Estcourt. He targeted five women, aged 22 to 29, breaking into their homes in the early morning hours. Each victim endured violent rapes that left lasting emotional and physical scars. In two incidents, he also stole their cellphones before escaping.
How Police Caught Him with DNA
Khumalo’s arrest came after he was caught committing another burglary. During that arrest, police took a mouth swab for DNA testing. This evidence later matched DNA from the rape scenes, linking him conclusively to all five attacks. This scientific breakthrough was key to solving the case.
The Courtroom Showdown
At trial, prosecutors Eddie Mbewu and Nonhlanhla Phungula built a strong case. They presented powerful testimony from the survivors and the overwhelming DNA evidence. The prosecution argued that Khumalo’s crimes were so severe that his sentences for each rape and burglary should run one after another, not at the same time.
Understanding the 85-Year Sentence
The judge agreed with the prosecution. Khumalo received 15 years for each of the five rape counts and 5 years for each of the two burglary counts. Because these sentences are consecutive (added together), the total comes to 85 years. This means he will spend a very long time behind bars.
Permanent Restrictions After Prison
Beyond prison, Khumalo faces lifelong consequences. The court declared him unfit to ever own a firearm. He will also be listed on South Africa’s national sex offenders register, which monitors offenders to help prevent future crimes
