FREE STATE — A lengthy manhunt has concluded in the Free State with the capture of Bloemfontein rape fugitive Kenosi William Lechoko, who successfully evaded law enforcement for more than ten years. The 46-year-old Chris Hani resident was tracked down and taken into custody by a specialized provincial unit, bringing a long-awaited resolution to a case that has remained open since 2010.
The breakthrough occurred on the morning of Friday, July 3, 2026. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) Free State Provincial Tracking Team, an intensive tracking intelligence operation led officers directly to the suspect. The tactical team cornered Lechoko at approximately 11:15 AM within the Jaggersfontein Central Business District (CBD), taking him into custody without further incident.
Lechoko’s fugitive status dates back to a severe sexual assault incident in Kopanong 16 years ago. Official case details indicate that the suspect allegedly coerced a 36-year-old female acquaintance into returning to his home after they had spent the evening drinking together. Once inside the residence, he reportedly forced himself upon her.
The victim was eventually able to flee the property and promptly alerted authorities at the Kopanong Police Station. However, before officers could apprehend him, Lechoko fled the area. He was subsequently placed on the national wanted list but managed to stay off the radar, successfully dodging authorities for over a decade until the provincial tracking team pinpointed his location this week.
Following his apprehension, the suspect was formally placed in police custody. Authorities have confirmed that Lechoko will be brought before the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court in the near future to officially answer to the rape charges.
