The Francistown Magistrate Court on Monday sentenced 30-year-old Lucky Ndobo to 15 years in prison for raping a 70-year-old woman, and another 10 years behind bars for robbing the elderly woman of her mobile phone and cash amounting to P360.
Ndobo who initially denied sexually assaulting the elderly woman, changed during trial and pleaded guilty for both charges.
Ndobo who hails from Mathangwane could not offer a clear and sensible explanation for his action, except to say, “I do not know what got into me to commit the offence.” A lame statement which Principal Magistrate Kabelo Magetse said, “illustrates lack of responsibility for conduct and raises concerns about his ability to control his behavior in future.”
“It is necessary to impose a sentence that serves as strong reminder ensuring that he does not only remember the gravity of his actions but also recognises the consequences of failing to control his impulses. The sentence must reflect the gravity of the crime and the need to uphold the law and sending a message that desperation cannot justify harming others.”
Magistrate Magetse highlighted that Ndobo’s long stay in prison will give him plenty time to work on being responsible for his actions and never to be impulsive.
“The sentence should act as a deterrent, not just to the accused but to others, emphasising the importance of accountability and self-control.”
The judiciary officer said although court acknowledges economic hardships drive individuals into desperate acts, and providing for the family is an understandable concern. However, it is not an excuse that lessens the severity of robbing a vulnerable elderly person.
“Further and against the accused person’s excuse, the act of robbing an elderly woman represents a significant breach of trust and safety; which cannot be overlooked,” highlighted the Principal Magistrate.
Handing down the lengthy prison term to Ndobo, Principal Magistrate Magetse indicated that it is necessary to use this case to convey a stern and unequivocal message to individuals thinking of Gender based violence in the Greater Francistown area, that violent and unlawful behaviours will be met with stringent legal consequences.
“This stance serves not only to protect vulnerable members of our community but reinforce the fundamental principle that crime does not pay. “
“By taking a firm stance in this case, we aim to deter potential offenders, uphold public safety and demonstrate the unwavering commitment of the criminal justice system to combating gender based violence”, ended Magetse.
