The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) detailed that Conga and the victim were in a relationship from 2016 to 2017. Despite the victim’s insistence on knowing Conga’s HIV status, he lied and claimed to be HIV negative. He later removed the condom during intercourse on two occasions, leading to her eventual HIV-positive diagnosis.
The case faced a setback in 2018 when it was withdrawn due to insufficient evidence but was reopened in 2021 after further investigation. During the trial, Conga denied infecting the victim and claimed she had removed the condom. However, the State presented evidence showing Conga had tested HIV positive since 2007.
Regional Magistrate Fikiswa Ntlati highlighted Conga’s lack of remorse and the severe impact of his actions on the victim and her family. The NPA welcomed the sentence as a message that sexual crimes will not be tolerated and offenders will face severe consequences.