Amantle Samane’s killer and rapist sentenced to life imprisonment

Warning: This article contains references to rape and murder, which may be distressing to some readers.

Phethe Simiao, the Mozambican national convicted of raping and murdering six-year-old Amantle Samane, has been sentenced to life imprisonment.

The Johannesburg High Court handed down the sentence on Monday, which includes two life terms for rape and murder, along with an additional two years each for kidnapping and for being in South Africa illegally.

The sentences will run concurrently, meaning Simiao will be eligible for parole only at the age of 50.

Amantle’s body was found in a shack in October 2024, shortly after she was reported missing, sparking outrage in the Orlando East community and calls for justice.

– No Remorse and Dismissed Defences –

In a scathing address, Judge William Karam, said Simiao committed the heinous crime to satisfy his perverted desires.

He highlighted the terror and confusion the defenceless child must have endured, noting that she was simply playing in the street before Simiao lured her into his shack.

During the trial, Simiao admitted to being intoxicated when he committed the crimes.

The judge dismissed this as a mitigating factor, citing a lack of evidence regarding the amount of alcohol consumed. The court also noted that Simiao showed no remorse, pointing to the fact that he did not voluntarily turn himself in after the act.

– A Victory for Justice –

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the verdict, describing it as a reflection of the hard work of state prosecutors.

NPA spokesperson, Phindi Mjonondwane, said the state will continue to fight for justice in similar cases.

– Family Finds Closure, But Not Peace –

Amantle’s family, while welcoming the sentence, maintain that no verdict can bring their daughter back.

Her mother, Ntombizodwa Samane, dismissed Simiao’s display of emotion in court and expressed hope that the sentence sends a strong message to men and perpetrators of child abuse.

The packed courtroom gallery erupted in cheers and songs as the convicted murderer and rapist was escorted from the court to his prison cell.

Amantle’s rapist gets Double life sentences 🙌

— BlackJapanese (@JTeishi) September 1, 2025

This is Amantle Samane She was raped and murdered at age 6 years old 💔😭

REMEMBER HER NAME, SAY HER NAME pic.twitter.com/c4tW71w98r

— IG:Joy-Zelda (@joy_zelda) September 1, 2025

Government welcomes the sentencing of Phethe Simiao to two life terms for the kidnapping, rape, and murder of six-year-old Amantle Samane. pic.twitter.com/JzFXZ1wRL4

— GCIS Media Liaison (@GCISMedia) September 1, 2025

Written by: Lebohang Ndashe