HARRISMITH — The Free State High Court, sitting at the Harrismith Magistrate’s Court, has sentenced 51-year-old Dingaan Petrus Mbele from Bohlokong, to life imprisonment for the kidnapping, rape, and murder of 11-year-old Boitumelo Princess Ranyamatsane.
The incident occurred on 29 December 2024, when the accused lured the child under false pretences. Mbele later admitted to committing the offences and to transporting and abandoning her body near a railway line.
The accused submitted a written confession, pleaded guilty, and confirmed all allegations against him during court proceedings.
Criminal history
Mbele’s criminal record reveals a pattern of violent behaviour:
- Attempted murder – Springs, Gauteng (15 February 2001): sentenced to 10 years
- Theft – sentenced to one year
- Declared unfit to possess a firearm
- Paroled on 30 April 2007 until 2011
Judge Lani Opperman emphasised that whilst some crimes may be forgiven, offences against children “strike at the heart of the nation.” She highlighted South Africa’s ongoing crisis of crimes targeting children, describing this case as “beyond comprehension.”
The Judge noted that the deceased was a vibrant, trusting young girl who suffered greatly, whilst the accused sought mercy from the court despite showing none to the child. She found that Mbele acted with premeditation and poses a significant danger to society.
Judge Opperman further stated that the family did not seek revenge, but simply wanted justice to prevail.
Sentencing details
The court imposed the following sentences:
- Count 1: Kidnapping – 15 years
- Count 2: Rape – Life imprisonment
- Count 3: Murder – Life imprisonment
The sentences will run concurrently, resulting in an effective life sentence. The accused’s name will also be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.
Impact on family
The child’s mother reported her daughter missing after returning from work. Unknown to her at the time, she had encountered the accused shortly after he had disposed of the child’s body. She is also the caregiver of a two-year-old boy.
Boitumelo, a Grade 4 learner at Bethlehem Combined School, was described as playful, helpful, and hardworking. She dreamed of becoming a teacher and often practised teaching with other children at home and school.
The case was investigated by Detective Sergeant Lebakeng from Bohlokong Detective Service.
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