FREE STATE — Moses Teboho Mabe has been sentenced to 20 years of direct imprisonment for rape, kidnapping, and housebreaking by the Phuthaditjhaba Regional Court. The sentencing, finalized on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, brings closure to a traumatic case that originated from a violent home invasion in the Free State province last year.
Harrowing Christmas Night Attack in Tseki Village
The conviction stems from a terrifying incident that took place on Thursday, 25 December 2025. At approximately 21:00, a 35-year-old woman was sleeping in her home in the Phomolong Section of Tseki Village, Qwaqwa, alongside her two children.
Her night was violently interrupted when she felt someone touching her shoulder. Upon opening her eyes, she discovered her 32-year-old neighbour, Mabe, standing next to her bed. The accused immediately instructed the victim to remain silent, issuing threats and warning her of the consequences if she disobeyed.
Mabe then ordered the woman to follow him, forcing her to leave her two young children alone in the home. He led the victim to a nearby donga, where he proceeded to rape her.
Victim’s Quick Thinking Leads to Escape
Following the assault, Mabe instructed the victim to follow him to his shack. Demonstrating quick thinking, the woman pleaded for permission to return to her home first to check on her children. Mabe agreed and accompanied her back to her residence, waiting outside while she went in.
Once inside, the victim immediately closed the door and barricaded it by placing heavy objects behind it to prevent the accused from entering. From outside, she heard Mabe vomiting before the area eventually fell quiet.
After confirming it was safe, the victim went to a neighbour to report the harrowing incident. The neighbour subsequently helped her report the matter to the police, triggering a formal investigation.
SAPS FCS Investigation Secures Conviction
The case was thoroughly investigated by Detective Sergeant Tlaleng Mohale, a key spokesperson and investigator attached to the South African Police Service (SAPS) Phuthaditjhaba Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit.
Under her diligent investigation, the evidence gathered culminated in Mabe being found guilty of rape, kidnapping, and housebreaking. The Phuthaditjhaba Regional Court subsequently handed down the 20-year direct imprisonment sentence, ensuring that justice was served for the victim and her family.
