| 2024/08/28 |
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Media Statement
KAGISANONG – The Free State Provincial Commissioner’s Office reports a significant judicial outcome in a disturbing case involving a young man who has been sentenced to life imprisonment following two violent sexual assaults. On 15 March 2024, at approximately 00:05, an 85-year-old woman from Mafora Section was violently attacked in her home by a male intruder who attempted to rape her. The elderly victim’s screams alerted neighbors who intervened and apprehended the suspect. The man was handed over to the police and subsequently granted bail. Just 15 days later, on 30 March 2024 at the same time of night, the same individual, while still out on bail, attacked and raped a 65-year-old woman in the same street. This second assault was reported promptly, and the suspect was arrested the same day. The cases were assigned to Detective Sergeant Bokamoso Peter of the Mangaung Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. Through her dedication and thorough investigation, Sgt. Peter, alongside NPA Prosecutor Advocate Valerie Herholdt, uncovered that the suspect, Anele Hlaba, 20, was already on parole for a previous sexual assault in 2023. This previous case involved the rape of a 22-year-old woman from a local tavern, who also lived in the vicinity of the recent victims. Sergeant Peter, known for her expertise in handling serial rapists, concluded the investigations and secured a verdict within just five months. The court sentenced Anele Hlaba to 12 years for the attempted rape of the 85-year-old woman and imposed a life sentence for the rape of the 65-year-old woman. This case highlights the critical work of our law enforcement agencies in addressing and resolving serious crimes swiftly. The commitment of Detective Sergeant Peter and Advocate Herholdt has ensured that justice has been served, providing a measure of relief to the affected community.
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