Lesotho National Sentenced to 25 Years for Rape in Sterkspruit

The Sterkspruit Regional Court has sentenced Retsidisitsoe Makhabane (25), an undocumented Lesotho national, to 25 years’ direct imprisonment after convicting him of rape. The incident occurred on 10 September 2023 in Tienbak Locality, Sterkspruit.

The court heard that the 14-year-old victim was on her way to a nearby shop when Makhabane approached her, questioned her, and tried to persuade her to go with him. When she refused, he dragged and strangled her, preventing her from calling for help, and forced her into a nearby shack.

Inside, he pushed her against the door, undressed her, and raped her. The victim tried to resist, including biting him on the neck, but he overpowered her. She managed to flee when he fell asleep, and two women who saw her crying helped report the incident to the police. Makhabane was arrested at his home the following day.

During the trial, Makhabane pleaded not guilty. The prosecution, led by Anele Magibile, presented the victim’s testimony, a first report witness, and a J88 medical report, all confirming that the sexual encounter was forced and non-consensual.

The accused’s witness failed to corroborate his version of events. The court found the State’s evidence credible and reliable, rejected the defence, and found Makhabane guilty as charged.

In addition to the 25-year sentence, the court declared him unfit to possess a firearm, ordered that his details be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders, and prohibited him from working with children. As a Lesotho national, he will be deported upon completing his sentence.

Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions, Barry Madolo, welcomed the sentence, stating: “This conviction sends a strong message that sexual offences will not be tolerated.

Rape is a grave violation of a person’s dignity and rights, leaving lasting trauma for victims. We commend the victim for her courage and the diligent work of the prosecution and investigating officers.”

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting gender-based violence and ensuring justice for survivors.