MAOKENG – In a recent ruling, the Kroonstad Magistrate’s Court sentenced a 33-year-old man to 25 years in prison for the rape of an 18-year-old girl.

According to South African Police Service, On the evening of May 6, 2019, the victim was on her way to a tuckshop in Koekoe village when she was approached by the then-unknown male suspect. After inquiring about her brother and being informed he was not home, the suspect followed and eventually caught up with the girl. He threatened her with a knife, dragged her into nearby bushes, and raped her twice, warning her not to disclose the incident.

The teenager reported the assault, leading to a rape investigation by the Maokeng Police station. The case was subsequently handed over to the Kroonstad Family violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit. Detective Sergeant Lionel DeGuovea, in collaboration with Prosecutor Mrs. Motshabi, led the investigation.

The accused, Tshidiso Shadrack Tlali, now 33 years old, was found guilty on two counts of rape and received a sentence of 25 years’ direct imprisonment.