NPA Apologises To Sonia Mbele For Dragging Her Into Son’s Rape Case Drama

South Africans woke up to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) making headlines for all the wrong reasons after it issued an apology to actress and TV producer Sonia Mbele.

The drama started after the NPA released a statement on Monday about her son, Donell Mbele, who appeared in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court for allegedly raping his 17-year-old girlfriend last December.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Kefilwe Mabote Calls Out Wealthy Men In Her DMs While Burning Versace And ‘Finding God’!

The NPA titled its original statement, “Renowned actress’s son appears in court for raping his girlfriend,” which immediately sparked backlash online. Tweeps didn’t waste time calling out the NPA for unnecessarily dragging Sonia into her son’s case when she has no involvement in the matter.

NPA’s Fumble and Public Outcry

The case involves allegations that Donell raped his girlfriend on December 14 and 15, 2024, at his home in Morningside, following a date at Clearwater Mall. However, the NPA’s decision to frame the statement around Sonia Mbele led to questions about their professionalism and intentions.

Recognising the backlash, the NPA released a formal apology on Wednesday, admitting their statement showed “poor judgement” and did not align with their values of justice and accountability.

“We sincerely and unreservedly apologise for any harm or distress caused, particularly to the mother indirectly referred to in the statement and to all members of the public in general.”

They also deleted the controversial post from their social media platforms.

Sonia Mbele’s Silence Amid the Storm

Sonia Mbele has not publicly addressed the apology or the case involving her son. However, in 2022, she made headlines when Donell faced accusations of physical abuse from another ex-girlfriend.

Back then, Sonia stood firm, stating she would not defend her son’s wrongdoings and emphasised the importance of accountability, saying, “I refuse to raise a man like his father. Donell must take responsibility for his actions.”

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Sonia Mbele’s Son, Donelle Mbele, Out On R1k Bail Amid Rape Charges

Donell, 23, was granted R1,000 bail and is set to reappear in court next month. The charges against him stem from a complaint filed at the Sandton SAPS by his girlfriend.

While the NPA’s misstep has been acknowledged, the focus remains on the unfolding legal case. As for Sonia, the nation is watching to see if she’ll make a statement or continue to remain silent during this challenging time.

---

For SA Celebrity News Follow  SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagram