By BAKANG MOKOTO
7 August 2026 – A man (52) was sentenced to 15 years imprisonment by the Molopo Regional Court for rape. On 13 November 2015, the accused, Xolile Ntshontsho raped a girl (8) after she was sent by her grandmother to return a wheelbarrow to a neighbour.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Lindiwe Mabasa said Ntshontsho grabbed the victim and took her to nearby bushes, where he raped her. Mabasa said the child immediately reported the incident to her mother, who notified the police.
“A case was opened, and the accused was arrested on the same day. The trial commenced on 21 June 2016. The state prosecutor, Kefentse Diseko presented compelling evidence, including the first report, DNA evidence and the J88 medico-legal report.
“Following his initial court appearance, the accused absconded, prompting the court to issue a warrant for his arrest. He remained at large for almost 10 years before being re-arrested on 26 March 2026,” she said.
Mabasa further said when the matter resumed on 3 August 2026, Ntshontsho admitted to the offence. She added that he was subsequently convicted on the strength of both the state’s evidence and his admissions.
“In aggravation of sentence, the state argued that life imprisonment was appropriate, emphasising the complainant’s young age and the fact that the accused had preyed on a vulnerable child. In delivering the sentence, the court held that, as an older adult, the accused had a duty to protect the child rather than violate her.
“The court further accepted that the state had presented a strong case and found that the accused’s admissions did not diminish the seriousness of the offence. Although the court found substantial and compelling circumstances justifying a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence, it sentenced the accused to 15 years imprisonment,” she said.
Mabasa said the court also declared him unfit to possess a firearm and to work with children in terms of the Children’s Act. She said in addition, it ordered that his name be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders in terms of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act.
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentence, saying it sends a clear message that those who prey on women, children and other vulnerable members of society will be brought to justice, regardless of how long they evade the legal process.
“The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to prosecuting sexual offences and ensuring that victims receive justice while their dignity is restored through the criminal justice system,” said Makhari.
The Guardian 