In a startling development that stunned both the courtroom and the public, a man accused of a long history of violent crimes entered the court with a smirk and a wink directed at his mother — the same woman seated silently in the gallery.
On Monday, 15 September, 41-year-old Oupa Hector Ringani appeared before the Protea Magistrate’s Court charged with a series of serious offenses that have caused concern throughout Soweto and beyond. Dubbed by some as Soweto’s alleged serial predator, Ringani faces accusations related to nearly 20 years of crimes targeting women and girls, instilling widespread fear and trauma.
The charges against him are extensive: 35 counts of rape, 23 of armed robbery, 21 of kidnapping, and 15 involving firearm pointing. Authorities believe there may be more charges to come as investigations continue.
Wearing a green jacket and showing little remorse, Ringani’s legal representative confirmed he would not be applying for bail. Magistrate Tshepiso Maepa scheduled the case for 14 November, allowing additional time for further investigations and a decision from the Director of Public Prosecutions. His next court appearance will likely be conducted remotely via an audio-visual remand system.
Police allege Ringani orchestrated a disturbing pattern of attacks from 2008 to 2025. His alleged victims, aged between 14 and 55, were reportedly threatened at gunpoint or with a knife. In most cases, he obscured his identity with masks or balaclavas, making it difficult for survivors to identify him.
DNA evidence has been instrumental in linking him to at least 45 reported cases, with 38 cases lodged at Diepkloof police station, five in Orlando, and two in the North West Province.
This is not Ringani’s first encounter with the law. In 2003, he was convicted of arson in Mokopane and sentenced to five years in prison — a sentence that was ultimately suspended. However, the severity and scope of his current allegations far exceed his previous conviction, and investigations are ongoing.
Magistrate Maepa emphasized that the charges could increase as more evidence emerges, indicating that what has been disclosed so far may only be the tip of the iceberg.
As the community grapples with the shock and authorities continue their inquiries, the city remains watchful — seeking justice for the numerous women whose lives have been profoundly impacted by what appears to be one man’s alleged reign of terror.
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