More than ten months after his arrest, Phethe Simiao, a 23-year-old Mozambican national, has informed the Johannesburg High Court that he intends to plead guilty to the kidnapping, rape, and murder of six-year-old Amantle Semane.
Guilty plea expected in Amantle Semane murder case
He also faces a charge of living illegally in South Africa.
The case will resume on Friday, when the court is expected to formally hear his plea.
Amantle’s family has endured nearly a year of emotional pain since her death in October 2024. Speaking outside court, family spokesperson Brenda Mjiyako described how difficult it has been to face the accused in court.
“We thank God for giving us strength thus far. It was not an easy journey,” she said.
“Coming here today is also difficult because all the witnesses are here, and it takes everyone back to the scene where they relive that time.”
She said the family is relieved that a guilty plea may finally bring closure, though they still hope to hear from Simiao about why he harmed a child.
What happened to Amantle Semane
On 21 October 2024, Amantle was last seen playing near her home in Orlando East, Soweto. According to police, Simiao allegedly lured her into his rented backyard shack.
Later that day, after a frantic search by family and neighbours, her body was found inside the shack. She showed signs of strangulation, and her clothing was partially removed.
Family members described the horror of finding her lifeless body. Her aunt, Mahlogonolo, recalled:
“Imagine finding the body of your child lying on the floor. I don’t wish this to happen to anyone.”
Simiao, known in the community for making burglar bars, fled after the murder. Police launched a manhunt and arrested him two days later. He has been in custody since.
During Monday’s court appearance, his lawyer, Ndivhuwo Masindi, confirmed Simiao’s intention to plead guilty. This means the trial may skip a lengthy fact-finding stage and move directly to sentencing once the plea is entered and accepted.
For Amantle’s family, the upcoming court date could mark the end of a painful chapter. While nothing can undo their loss, a guilty plea could ensure that justice is served without further delays.
The case will be back in the Johannesburg high court on Friday, 15 August 2025, when the court will hear the formal plea and potentially begin the sentencing process.
In South Africa, any person who suspects that a child is being abused, neglected or exploited is legally required to report it. You can contact the Department of Social Development’s 24-hour call centre at 0800 428 428 (0800 4 CHILD), or send a ‘please call me’ to *120*7867#. Reporting is confidential, and help is available for victims and whistleblowers.