NPA Welcomes Life Sentences For Soweto Child Rapist And Killer

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has welcomed the judgment that saw 25-year-old Phethe Simiao sentenced to life in prison for the brutal rape and murder of six-year-old Amantle Samane in Soweto.

Judge William Karam handed down two life sentences, which will run concurrently, after Simiao confessed to his crimes.

The young child’s lifeless body was discovered in Simiao’s shack in Orlando East, Soweto, sending shockwaves through the local community.

Judge Finds Lack of Genuine Remorse

Although Simiao pleaded guilty, the court found that he showed no real remorse for his actions. Judge Karam ruled on Monday that the accused was “feeling sorry for himself” rather than acknowledging the severity of the crimes.

The ruling emphasized that a guilty plea alone is not enough to demonstrate accountability, especially in cases involving such violence and disregard for human life.

NPA Commends Sentence as Justice for Victim’s Family

NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane said the sentence was fitting, given the nature of the crimes and the devastation caused to the victim’s family.

“It is one that has considered the seriousness of the case, as well as how it has affected the family of the deceased. It has considered the seriousness of the crime and the criminal himself. More importantly, the court found that the accused was feeling sorry for himself, rather than a sign of remorse, by pleading guilty,” Mjonondwane explained.

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The NPA stated that the outcome sends a strong message that crimes against children will not be tolerated and that justice has been served for Amantle Samane and her family.

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