Pretoria - With the country commemorating Women's Month, the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has expressed satisfaction at the courts’ determination in ensuring justice for all women and children.
The department was reacting to the conviction of Mlungisi Mtshali, known as the “birthday rapist” on Tuesday. Mtshali, who faced 122 charges of sexual assault, kidnapping and theft, including 30 counts of rape, was convicted of all the 122 charges by the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
“We have mechanisms to ensure rape victims are protected. This is justice manifestly seen to be done and we hope that he (Mtshali) will receive a lengthy sentence that fits the crimes committed,” said department spokesperson Mthunzi Mhaga.
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Jeff Radebe commended the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and police for their sterling job, adding that victims should not suffer in silence, especially rape victims.
Radebe’s spokesperson said the minister also “commended the young ladies who had the courage to come forward when the image of the accused was flighted on TV”.
Mtshali lured his victims into joining him in “celebrating his birthday”. Young women were given alcohol before he raped them.
During the trial, Mtshali fired three lawyers, opting to defend himself. – SAnews.gov.za
