By REGINALD KANYANE
A man was sentenced to life imprisonment by Taung Regional Court for raping an elderly woman, Naomi Motlhwareng (73). Daniel Kediemetse Sehemo (53) from Sekhing village near Taung, was apprehended on 3 February 2022 after he broke into the home of Motlhwareng, who was his neighbour with the intent to commit rape.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Henry Mamothame said, Sehemo subsequently strangled and raped Motlhwareng before fleeing the scene.
“He knew the victim very well and also had privileged information that she stayed alone. Sehemo was also aware that the victim had previously suffered from a stroke. The victim reported the matter to the police and Sehemo was subsequently arrested.
“He was denied bail and in the mitigation of the sentence, his defense read a statement wherein he pleaded guilty as an illustration to express remorse for his action. The victim also took a stand and referred to her ordeal as a painful one, as it was committed by a person she trusted, referring to him as “my son” while giving her evidence,” he said.
The state prosecutor, Tecia Khula urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, arguing that elderly people are vulnerable and must be protected from the likes of Sehemo.
In a passing sentence, Magistrate Buti Zulu agreed with the state and lamented that society is outraged by rape as it makes them feel unsafe. Zulu further alluded to the responsibility the court has in imposing sentences that will restore the faith of the public in the criminal justice system.
Meanwhile, the North West Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Rachel Makhari Sekhaolelo lauded Khula and the investigating officer from the SAPS for a collaboration that yielded a positive outcome.
“Our fight against protecting the most vulnerable members of society will be demonstrated through such convictions”, she added.
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