GQEBERHA- The Eastern Cape High Court has sent a strong message in the case of Lindile Hini(44) who was sentenced to life imprisonment for the heinous rape of a 70-year-old woman in her own home in Kwazakhele. The horrific incident took place in October 2023, when Hini who is the victim’s long-time neighbour took advantage of her unlocked back door to gain entry and fulfil his depraved desire.
The victim who is a pensioner was asleep in her home with the lights on, expecting her son to return, when she was awoken by Hini. He undressed and proceeded to rape her, then had the audacity to ask for water to wash himself before leaving her traumatized and violated.
In a callous attempt to defend his actions, Hini claimed the elderly woman had seduced him while drunk, an allegation the court rejected due to the victim’s vulnerable state and clear signs of a violent, non-consensual assault.
The victim was left shaken and fearful after the attack, sought medical attention and counselling. She also expressed suicidal thoughts and decided to sell her home, unable to bear the thought of continuing to live next door to her assailant.
The State Advocate, Ansiot Kimfley argued for an appropriate sentence, pointing out the premeditated nature of the crime and the calculated manner in which Hini targeted a vulnerable victim. Kimfley also highlighted the psychological impact of the assault on the victim.
Lindile Hini, a first-time offender, was arrested within days of the assault and incarcerated until his conviction on 16 January 2025. The life sentence he received will be served concurrently with additional sentences of three years for housebreaking with intent to commit rape and two years for contravening the Older Persons Act.
In response to the ruling, Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions Barry Madolo expressed satisfaction at the sentence. “The court has sent a strong message that crimes of this nature will not be tolerated and that perpetrators will be brought to justice,” Madolo stated.