By Staff Reporter
BETHLEHEM — The devastated family of 11-year old Boitumelo Ranyamatsane, who was raped and brutally murdered by a parolee, say justice has not been fully served despite the Free State High Court handing down multiple life sentences.
Parolee Dingaani Mbhele (51) was recently sentenced to two life terms and an additional 15 years’ imprisonment for the rape, murder and kidnapping of the child. The sentence has, however, failed to bring closure to Boitumelo’s family, who fear the possibility of parole in the future.
Boitumelo’s body was discovered dumped on railway tracks in Phase 6, Bethlehem, on 30 December 2024, a day after she was reported missing.
In a chilling statement presented through his lawyer, Mbhele admitted to the crime in graphic detail.
“I sent the young girl to buy me a cigarette. When she returned, I told her to undress herself. I then raped and killed her, waited until evening, and disposed of her body on the railway tracks,” he said.
Family spokesperson Puleng Ranyamatsane said the sentence, though severe on paper, does not match the cruelty of the crime.
“We know South Africa has abolished the death penalty. But in our view, this case deserved the harshest punishment possible. We are not satisfied because we know the accused may one day be released on parole,” she said.
“Our pain is so deep that we feel he should face the same finality our daughter did. He must join her in the graveyard.”
Puleng said the family remains traumatized by the brutality inflicted on their innocent child.
“We cannot erase what she endured. The cruelty of this crime is unbearable, and the pain of losing our daughter in this way will live with us forever,” she said, adding that Mbhele acted with “complete heartlessness”.
The murder sparked intense outrage in Bethlehem, with residents taking to the streets demanding justice for Boitumelo and other victims of gender-based violence and femicide. Protesters carried placards calling for accountability and stronger protection for children.
Community leader Moeketsi ‘Max’ Mokoena urged parents and communities to take collective responsibility for child safety.
“We must stand up as parents and fight all anti-social behaviour in our communities. Anyone who attacks a child is an enemy of the public,” he said.
Mokoena also condemned retaliatory violence against families of accused persons.
“Burning the homes of perpetrators’ parents is wrong. They did not send their children to commit crimes. What we want is accountability and remorse.”
