relevant cases which tend to show that consideration has to be made on the type of crime committed, the offender and the interest of society, see S v Zinn3. [14] In S v Rubie4 it was said that:“Punishment should fit the criminal as well as the crime, be fair to society and be blended with a measure of mercy according to particular circumstances.” [15] S v Sondla5, “that sentences should be exemplary to others and should also be able to deter others from committing the same offence.” [16] The Court in S v C6 described rape as a fate far worse than total loss of life in these words, “A rapist does not murder victim he destroys her self-respect and destroys her feeling of physical and mental integrity and security. His monstrous deed often haunts his victim and subjects her to mental torment for the rest of her life, a fate far worse than loss of life.” 3 S v Zinn 1969 (2) S.A 532 at 540 S v Rubie 1975 (4) S.A. 855 at 862 5 S v Sondla 1992 (2) SAA 613 at 862 6 S v C 1996 (2) SACR 181 at 186 4