On 2 September 2019, at about 03:55, an 18-year-old girl returned from a tavern accompanied by her male friend. Along the way they were confronted by a suspect who assaulted the male friend who then ran away.
The girl was grabbed by the suspect who forced the victim into his residence where he raped her twice.
After the rape ordeal, the incident was reported to Hoopstad Police and a case of rape was registered for further investigation. The case was assigned to Detective Sergeant Mkhehlane of Lejweleputswa District FCS Unit.
After a thorough investigation, a 34-year-old suspect was arrested and found guilty as charged by Hertzogville Regional Court.
On 22 March 2022, the accused Moleleki Petrus Sebilo (34), was sentenced to life imprisonment, Mr Bantu was prosecuting and Mr Mahlatsi was the Magistrate.
The Acting Provincial Commissioner of Free State, Maj Gen Solly Lesia applauded the investigator, Detective Sergeant Mkhehlane Mojalefa Mkhehlane of Lejweleputswa District FCS for conducting a thorough investigation which led to this conviction as this will sent a stern warning to would-be rapists that crime does not pay.
