A South African court sentenced Itumeleng Reclin Machabe (27), also known as Bendow, to two life terms plus 44 years in prison for the rape and murder of 11-year-old Relebogile Segami and the rape of two other minors. He was also convicted of distributing child pornography.
The High Court of South Africa, Northern Cape Division, in Kimberley, delivered the sentence after Machabe was found guilty on multiple counts, including rape, fraud, contravention of child pornography laws, crimen injuria, and murder. Segami was reported missing in March 2022 and her body was found shortly after. Machabe was the last person seen with her.
Despite pleading not guilty, the prosecution successfully opposed his bail application, citing the severity of the charges and the fact that he was already on bail for another rape charge. Further investigation revealed a pattern of abuse dating back to 2013, with other victims coming forward.
The prosecution argued that Machabe preyed on vulnerable minors, showing no remorse for his actions. The court heard how he lured victims, used social media to obtain and distribute compromising photos, and repeatedly raped one victim, threatening her life if she screamed.
While forensic evidence was limited, the prosecution relied heavily on circumstantial evidence, highlighting inconsistencies in Machabe’s account. They emphasized the high rates of violence against women and children in South Africa and argued for the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment.
The court found Machabe guilty on all counts except attempted murder, due to insufficient evidence. He received two life sentences and an additional 44 years. His name will be added to the National Register of Sex Offenders, and he is banned from owning firearms. The sentencing occurred on what would have been Relebogile Segami’s 14th birthday.
