News24 | Limpopo hip-hop artist sentenced to three life terms for repeatedly raping nine-year-old boy

Limpopo hip-hop artist Samuel Boomfire Mbuyane was sentenced to three life terms for repeatedly raping a nine-year-old boy.

• Samuel Boomfire Mbuyane was sentenced to three life terms for repeatedly raping a nine-year-old boy.
• Mbuyane manipulated the victim, leaving the boy with severe psychological trauma.
• The NPA urged people to report abuse and protect vulnerable children.

Limpopo-based hip-hop artist, Samuel Boomfire Mbuyane, was sentenced to three life terms for repeatedly raping a nine-year-old boy in Driekop village.

The Burgersfort Regional Court delivered the verdict, declaring Mbuyane, 42, guilty on three counts of rape, which were committed between 6 and 8 November 2020.

He was declared unfit to possess a firearm.

“This landmark conviction, stemming from heinous acts, underscores the NPA’s [National Prosecuting Authority] unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable children and combating gender-based violence (GBV),” said Mashudu Malabi-Dzhangi, the NPA’s regional spokesperson.

During the trial, evidence revealed that Mbuyane lured the victim to his home under the pretence of playing music.

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Once there, he bound the boy to a chair, raped him, and issued death threats if he disclosed the abuse.

Malabi-Dzhangi added that, in an additional manipulative act, Mbuyane referred to the young victim as his “wife”, and gave him a phone which had an alarm set to remind him to return for further assaults.

“The terrified boy, forced by fear, complied and was raped on two more occasions. The abuse came to light when the boy’s mother noticed his physical pain and distress,” Malabi-Dzhangi said.

Community members apprehended Mbuyane and handed him over to the police.

Despite pleading not guilty and denying the charges, the court found Mbuyane’s defence baseless.

Malabi-Dzhangi said:

“In addition, a Victim Impact Statement detailed the severe psychological trauma suffered by the young survivor, highlighting the social stigma, peer ostracism, and subsequent need to change schools.”

Mafolo argued that Mbuyane’s predatory actions, abuse of his status as a community figure, and betrayal of the victim’s trust justified the maximum sentence.

“The court agreed, emphasising the seriousness of his crimes and their long-term impact. The conviction was met with praise from Limpopo’s NPA, with advocate Ivy Thenga commending the efforts of Mafolo and investigating officer Sergeant Jacob Letsatsi Mojalefa in securing justice,” Malabi-Dzhangi said.

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Malabi-Dzhangi urged South Africans to unite against GBV and emphasised the importance of recognising signs of abuse and reporting it promptly.

“This case highlights the critical role of parents and community members in protecting children. We must foster safe environments, where children can heal and thrive, free from fear and stigma, while ensuring justice upholds their constitutional rights.

“This case serves as a grave reminder that vigilance and collective action are vital in combating crimes against children and upholding justice,” she said.