By BAKANG MOKOTO
30 March 2026 – A man (29) who raped a girl (10) was sentenced to life imprisonment by the Ditsobotla Regional Court. The evidence presented in court stated that on 20 October 2018, the victim was playing with a friend in Mooifontein Village when the accused, Motseonageng Phakedi approached them.
The North West police spokesperson, Colonel Anne Magakoe said he produced a sjambok, threatened the children and chased the friend away before dragging the victim to his residence, where he raped her. Magakoe said the incident was reported to police and following thorough investigations, the accused was arrested.
“Phakedi pleaded not guilty on 28 January 2025, but was subsequently convicted on 24 October 2025. The case was investigated by D/Sgt Herbert Makunye attached to the Provincial Serial and Electronic Crime Investigation, whose dedication ensured a successful conviction,” she said.
Meanwhile, the acting North West Police Commissioner, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, praised the investigating officer and stakeholders, reaffirming SAPS’ firm stance against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and its commitment to protecting the vulnerable. Naidoo said they welcome the life imprisonment sentence as it shows that justice has been served for the victim.
The Guardian 