LIMPOPO — A 28-year-old Limpopo man has received a life sentence for the rape of a 13-year-old girl in the Gilead policing area, marking a significant victory for child protection advocates and local law enforcement. The Mokerong Magistrate’s Court handed down the severe penalty against Lesetja Frans Molomo on Friday, ensuring he faces the full weight of the justice system for his crimes.
The conviction stems from a harrowing incident on September 20, 2024, in Hlogo ya Nku village. Around 3:00 p.m., the minor was visiting a local shop when she encountered Molomo, a man she was already acquainted with. Authorities state that Molomo coerced the child into accompanying him to his homestead, where he forcibly undressed and assaulted her. In a disturbing twist following the attack, Molomo allegedly handed the traumatized child a mobile phone, instructing her to keep it hidden so he could summon her whenever he desired.
The psychological toll on the young victim was immediate and severe. She withdrew from her family, locking herself inside her bedroom, refusing food, and expressing suicidal intentions. The breakthrough in the case occurred when the victim’s sister discovered the hidden cellphone. When confronted, the child broke down and admitted that Molomo had trapped her in a forced, unwanted relationship. The child’s mother was immediately alerted, leading to the formal opening of a criminal case at the local police station.
Due to the sensitive nature of the crime, the docket was swiftly transferred to the Mokopane Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. Investigating officer Sergeant Saki Ledwaba took over the docket, launching a relentless pursuit of the suspect. Thanks to Sergeant Ledwaba’s dedicated investigative work, Molomo was tracked and arrested on November 4, 2024. The court denied his bail application, and he remained behind bars in state custody awaiting trial.
Nearly two years after the initial assault, justice was finalized on August 14, 2026, with the life sentence. SAPS Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers publicly praised the outcome. Speaking on behalf of the province’s law enforcement, the Lieutenant General welcomed the Mokerong Magistrate’s Court’s decision, commending the meticulous work of the FCS unit and reaffirming the police service’s commitment to removing violent predators from the streets and safeguarding vulnerable minors.
