Cosmo City serial rapist who terrorised victims in their sleep sentenced to life imprisonment

The Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg has sentenced a serial rapist who terrorised women in Cosmo City to life imprisonment.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane on Friday said Thabang Mahlangu, who faced charges of rape, robbery with aggravating circumstances and housebreaking with intent to rape, violated several women between 2018 and 2020.

DNA evidence from five attacks on five women led to his arrest and conviction.

Mjonondwane said Mahlangu used the same modus operandi with all victims – attacking while they were alone and asleep.

She said:

Arguing for a maximum sentence, advocate Rotondwa Phungo told the court that Mahlangu exposed the women to the risks of HIV and unwanted and unplanned pregnancies.

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Mjonondwana said the NPA welcomed the sentence and commended Phungo and the investigating officer for securing justice for the victims.

"The NPA applauds advocate Phungo and investigating officer Sergeant France Mokwai for remaining steadfast in their pursuit of justice and their unwavering support to the survivors of these horrific crimes. The NPA remains resolute in its efforts to promote a safe environment for women," the agency said.