DULLSTROOM MAN SENTENCED TO TWO LIFE TERMS FOR RAPING MOTHER AND 10-YEAR-OLD DAUGHTER

A Dullstroom man, Gordon Mabuza, has been sentenced to two life terms in prison for raping a 38-year-old woman and her 10-year-old daughter during a horrific attack at their home in December 2022.

The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga welcomed the sentencing, which was handed down on 16 October 2026.

The incident occurred at approximately 02:30 on 23 December 2022, when Mabuza allegedly gained entry to the victims' home through a window while they were asleep in separate rooms.

He attacked and raped the mother, stabbing her several times with a knife during the assault. He also threatened to kill her if she reported the incident before proceeding to the room where her daughter was sleeping, where he raped the child, who subsequently lost consciousness.

When the mother regained consciousness, she discovered that her cellphone was missing. She then found her daughter unconscious and sought assistance from a neighbour, who contacted the police.

Both victims were taken to hospital for medical treatment. The child was discharged after three days, while her mother remained hospitalised for approximately two weeks due to the severity of her injuries.

The Belfast Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit investigated the case, leading to Mabuza's arrest on 28 December 2022.

On 16 October 2026, he was sentenced to life imprisonment for housebreaking with intent to rape and rape, 15 years' imprisonment for attempted murder, 12 months' imprisonment for housebreaking with intent to rob and robbery, and a second life sentence for rape. The intimidation charge was withdrawn.

Mpumalanga Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Apaphia Modise commended the investigating officers, prosecution team and all role-players involved in securing the conviction and sentence.

Modise reiterated SAPS's commitment to protecting women and children and ensuring that perpetrators of serious and violent crimes are brought to justice.