The death sentence is no longer imposed by our courts, but sadly the death penalty seems to be well and alive in our country. Here are some crimes that currently carry the death penalty in South Africa:
Living on a farm:- This is probably the most serious offence in South Africa and both judgement and execution are swift. Aggravating circumstances are applied to the elderly. These offenders are almost certain of the death penalty and are encouraged to give up their farms, preferably without compensation.
Poor vehicle maintenance:- Getting stuck next to the road after dark certainly deserves the death penalty. Many a South African has paid the ultimate price for a faulty spark plug or misjudging the distance to next fuel station. Aggravating circumstances are applied to single lady drivers.
Getting lost:- Very serious crime, especially after dark. A wrong turn can result in a severe penalty and could ultimately lead to execution.
Owning a cell phone:- Big no no. The list of people being executed for cell phones is endless. Get rid of the thing, or accept the risk of the death penalty. This crime is rapidly spreading to the tablet and smart phone market, so beware.
Leaving a door or window open:- It’s quite common that an unsecured door or window can receive the death penalty. Many has mistakenly believed that boomed gates, electric fences, beams and other loopholes in the system could protect them from receiving this penalty, but the laws are strict and windows and doors should be shut and locked at all times.
Stopping at a traffic light after dark:- Don’t stop at a traffic light after dark, you might receive the death penalty without any chance of an appeal. Harsh but true. Rather accept the risk of smashing into another vehicle, you could still get away with your life.
Socialising in public:- Going out with friends or family to a restaurant or other social gathering can easily result in the hand out of a penalty. This crime is also referred to as “being in the wrong place at the wrong time”. Recently one of our sport heroes received this penalty for celebrating a family birthday. RIP.
Working whilst on strike:- Anyone dares to work whilst their co-workers are on strike warrants the death penalty. These penalties are normally imposed by the mob and usually take on the form of a stoning or burning.
So, if you feel a bit adventurous and want to experience the feeling of being “on the wrong side of the law”, avoid the above crimes. But fear not, in our liberated and free country there are many lesser crimes in which you can safely indulge; with little fear of prosecution, let alone the death penalty. These lighter crimes include acts such as pre-mediated murder, rape, child molestation, hi-jacking, theft, fraud and many similar insignificant past times.
RIP to all those in our country who has received the death penalty.
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