Action Society welcomes the three life sentences handed down yesterday in the Johannesburg High Court to Mlungisi Dlodlo for raping and attempting to murder a three-year-old girl in Lion Park near Lanseria.
The little girl, whom Action Society calls Bloom to protect her identity, was raped and violently attacked on 7 September 2025. She sustained a serious neck injury and was found on a roof in a critical condition.
Judge Johnson sentenced Dlodlo, a 31-year-old Zimbabwean national, to life imprisonment on each of two counts of rape and a further life sentence for attempted murder. He also received six months’ imprisonment for contravening the Immigration Act.
“A three-year-old child was subjected to unimaginable brutality. We welcome these three life sentences and commend the investigating officer and the State prosecutor, Ms Barnard, for their work in securing this outcome. Their work has helped ensure that the man responsible is held accountable,” says Juanita du Preez, Action Society’s national spokesperson.
The case progressed from the Randburg Magistrates’ Court to the Johannesburg High Court, with repeated postponements for further investigation, DNA results and pre-trial proceedings before it was set down for trial. Dlodlo initially pleaded not guilty to the rape and attempted murder charges, but pleaded guilty to contravening the Immigration Act.
“Bloom survived, but a sentence cannot undo what was done to her. She and those caring for her must live with the consequences of this attack long after the court proceedings have ended. She deserves continued care, protection and support as she grows up,” says Du Preez.
“Yesterday, the man who attacked her has received three life sentences. Every child whose life is shattered by violence deserves the same determination from investigators and prosecutors to bring their attacker to justice.”
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