Taxi driver arrested while allegedly raping passenger
Police noted that Ndala’s legal representative had argued Ndala was a breadwinner with three children, was a first-time offender and suffered from a chronic illness.
But the prosecutors had countered that taxi drivers held a duty of care to protect their passengers – not harm them.
“When handing down sentence, the Regional Court magistrate said that the type of sentence to be imposed should fit the crime committed, and also indicated that crimes against women and children occur almost every day, including during the period of the nationwide lockdown,” police said.
Possible deterrent
Ndala was finally sentenced to 37 years imprisonment for the five counts.
On count 1, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, he was sentenced to seven years. On count 2, attempted rape, Ndala was sent packing to three years, whereas on count 3, kidnapping, he was sentenced to five years. On count 4, the rape charge, he was sentenced to 25 years and on count 5, compelled self-sexual assault, he was sentenced to two years.
Lieutenant General Zuma said he hoped the sentence would deter others.
“I am elated… This is another step towards the realisation of a safe environment for children and women in our society.
“We believe that the sentence will serve as a deterrent to would-be rapists… We urge men to desist from perpetuating violence against women.”
