GQEBERHA – The Gqeberha High Court sentenced a 44-year-old man to an effective life in prison for a series of brutal rapes, kidnappings and robberies that terrorised women and children in the Eastern Cape.
Malaziwe Enock Joja received three life terms plus 47 years for crimes spanning from 2014-2016.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Joja’s crime spree began on 13 January 2014 when he allegedly kidnapped a nine-year-old girl in KwaDwesi, Gqeberha, dragging her into secluded bushes and raping her.
More than a year later, on 7 March 2015, he allegedly abducted and raped a 27-year-old woman on Shubushuma Street in Veeplaas, Gqeberha. During this attack, he assaulted her with fists and a knife, causing multiple injuries, before forcing her into a dark space between houses.
His final recorded attack occurred on 31 January 2016, in the Hombe Administrative Area, Lusikisiki, where he broke into a 15-year-old girl’s home. After stealing two cellphones, he kidnapped and raped the teenager in a nearby yard while threatening her with a knife.
DNA evidence leads to conviction
On 11 June 2024, Joja was arrested in connection with the Lusikisiki case after DNA samples matched evidence recovered from the victims, linking him definitively to the sexual assaults.
The case was resolved through a plea agreement under Section 105A of the Criminal Procedure Act, sparing the victims from having to testify in court.
Repeat offender with violent history
The court noted Joja’s extensive criminal history, which includes previous convictions for murder, housebreaking, theft and escaping lawful custody.
In addition to the prison sentence, Joja has been declared unfit to possess a firearm and his name will be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.
Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions Barry Madolo welcomed the sentence.
“The offences committed by Joja were appalling and targeted some of the most vulnerable members of our society,” Madolo stated. “This sentence sends a clear message that sexual offenders will be held accountable, and the NPA remains committed to protecting victims and ensuring justice is served.”
