By REGINALD KANYANE
2 July 2025- A man (36) was sentenced to life imprisonment and additional 25 years by the Molopo Regional Court for series of rape. The accused, Bongani Ntoro (36) raped four women and a girl (12) between 2007 and 2010 in Magogoe, Tloung and Seweding villages in Mahikeng.
The North West police spokesperson, Captain Mpho Manyoba said Ntoro would, in committing the crimes, cover his face to conceal his identity. Manyoba said following intensive and meticulous investigations, which were applauded by the court, Ntoro was linked with the evil deeds through forensic DNA leads.
“The long arm of the law caught up with him at Mahikeng Taxi Rank on 17 May 2024. The state ensured that the accused was denied bail and had been in custody until he was sentenced.
“He was sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for three counts of housebreaking with intent to rape, life imprisonment for three counts of rape and six year imprisonment for sexual offence.
“Ntoro was sentenced to 30 years imprisonment for two counts of aggravated robbery. The sentences will run concurrently with life imprisonment,” she said.
Meanwhile, the North West Police Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng thanked the investigating officer, Sergeant Tshepiso Makunye, Reservist Constable Makabe, the state prosecutor, advocate Kefentse Diseko and all other role players for their concerted and tireless efforts.
“The arrest, successful prosecution, conviction and life sentence imposed on this merciless sexual predator is the apt response to the President’s directive and the actualization of the government’s multi-sectoral Gender Based Violence & Femicide National Strategic Plan’ six pillars approach, especially the pillars on Prevention and Rebuilding Social Cohesion, Justice, Safety and Protection as well as Response, Care, Support and Healing.
“The dedication, commitment, proficiency and excellent work by the police and prosecution in securing conviction and long prison sentence is inspiring, appreciated and commendable and will further strengthen the fight against the scourge of GBVF, especially sexual assault and sexual violence against women and children’” said Asaneng.
The Guardian 