In a successful collaboration between local law enforcement and the justice system, a 21-year-old man has been handed a substantial prison sentence for a January 2024 rape.
Lehlohonolo Mokoena, from Namahadi Village in Qwaqwa, was convicted and sentenced to 14 years of direct imprisonment by the Phuthaditjhaba Regional Court on Friday, 12 September 2025. The sentencing comes after a thorough investigation by the Phuthaditjhaba Family, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit and prosecution by the National Prosecuting Authority.
The court heard that on the evening of 14 January 2024, the 17-year-old victim from Katlehong Village was walking home from a tavern with friends. The group noticed they were being followed by an individual who began throwing stones at them. In a panic, they ran, but the teenage victim fell to the ground. The assailant, identified as Mokoena, then caught her, pulled her to a nearby house, and raped her.
The victim bravely came forward two days after the incident to open a case. Her report led to the swift arrest of Mokoena, who was subsequently charged with rape.
The case was presented in court by Public Prosecutor Ms. Nteo. Presiding Magistrate Mr. Msimanga found Mokoena guilty and delivered the 14-year sentence. The investigation was led by Detective Sergeant Mifi.
