Man jailed for 12 years after chasing 16-year-old with knife

A 40-year-old Lesotho man has been sentenced to 12 years in prison after a court found him guilty of attempting to rape a 16-year-old girl and contravening immigration laws. The Bloemfontein Regional Court handed down the sentence on Thursday.

Sentence details

The court imposed ten years imprisonment for attempted rape and a further two years for contravention of the Immigration Act, totalling 12 years behind bars.

The incident

Free State police spokesperson Sergeant Sinah Mpakane said the sentencing follows an incident on April 28, 2024, in which the accused pursued a 16-year-old and threatened her with a knife.

According to Mpakane, the victim attempted to flee and sought refuge in a nearby home. The accused forcibly entered the residence and damaged property while trying to reach her. The homeowner and his son rescued the victim, and the accused was arrested immediately.

Investigation and prosecution

Detective Sergeant Bokamoso Shanice Peter led the investigation, which established that the accused is a Lesotho citizen residing in South Africa illegally. The investigating officer opposed bail, and the court received what Mpakane described as “compelling evidence” despite the accused denying all allegations.

Police response

Mpakane praised Detective Sergeant Peter, saying the South African Police Service “commends the sterling work of Detective Sergeant Peter for his commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of violence against women and children are removed from society.”

Case context

The sentencing concludes the court process described in the case, with the accused convicted of attempted rape and an immigration contravention as reported by Free State police statements.