North West man gets life for raping 16-year-old girl

A 34-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for raping a 16-year-old girl he had offered to walk home after a cultural dance festival in North West.

Tshepiso Tau was convicted in the Molopo Regional Court following an incident in Madiba Makgabana Village on 12 February 2022, according to a report by The South African.

The teenager had been attending the festival with friends when she became separated from them. Afraid to walk home alone, she accepted Tau’s offer to accompany her.

However, the journey home ended in an attack. According to information presented in court, Tau dragged the teenager into nearby bushes and raped her.

When she arrived home, she told her mother what had happened. The incident was subsequently reported to Mmabatho Police Station.

Court hands down life sentence

The court sentenced Tau to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of rape.

In addition to the prison sentence, he was declared unfit to possess a firearm. His name will also be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.

The case highlights the serious consequences of sexual violence against children and the importance of ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable through the justice system.

Police commend investigation team

North West Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Peter Adams praised Detective Constable Itumeleng Tshegetso of the Mmabatho Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for investigating the case.

He also commended prosecutor Advocate Ofentse Diseko for the work that contributed to securing the conviction and life sentence.

The South African Police Service in North West announced the outcome, recognising the efforts of those involved in bringing the case before the court.

Where to seek help

Anyone affected by gender-based violence or sexual abuse can contact the following services for assistance:

• GBV Command Centre: Call 0800 428 428, available 24 hours a day, or dial 1207867# from a cellphone.
• Childline: Call 116 toll-free for support for children and teenagers.

Sexual offences can also be reported at the nearest police station.

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Source: The South African

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