Phethe Sara Simiao has been handed a double life sentence for the rape and murder of 6-year-old Amantle Samane. Luba Lesolle images
Johannesburg: Man Sentenced to Two Life Terms for Rape and Murder of Six-Year-Old Amahle Samane.
The court has sentenced a 25-year-old man to two life terms for the rape and murder of six-year-old Amahle Samane, leaving the Soweto community in deep shock and grief.
Guilty Plea and Conviction
Phethe Sara Simiao, a Mozambican citizen, pleaded guilty to charges of kidnapping, rape, murder, and violating the Immigration Act. The Johannesburg High Court found him guilty. In his plea statement, Simia admited that he was intoxicated when he enticed Amantle to leave in October 2024. To hide his crime, he confessed to raping and strangling the youngster in his Orlando East hut to hide.
Heartbreaking Impact on the Family
Ntombizodwa Samane, Amantle’s mother, gave a moving victim impact statement during the sentencing hearing. She informed the judge that losing her daughter had destroyed her life. Sobbing, she remarked, “I can’t sleep, and when I hear kids cry, I think of my child who cried out for help.” In her plea, she begged the court to impose multiple life sentences to reflect the seriousness of the offense.
Court’s Decision
The court dismissed the defense’s claim that Simiao’s guilty plea indicated regret and sentenced him to double life in prison on Monday, September 1, 2025. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) applauded the decision, stating it demonstrated the legal system’s dedication to protecting children from violent and sexual crimes.
Community Outrage and Calls for Safety
Following Amantle’s death, protesters in Orlando East demanded stronger safeguards for children. Residents outside the court expressed relief at the sentencing but acknowledged that nothing could erase the trauma or bring the child back. A community leader stated, “This sentence is justice, but it does not heal the pain.”
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