Freedom Park Rapist and Armed Robber Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison
A 30-year-old man who terrorised a young couple in Freedom Park has been sentenced to an effective 30 years’ direct imprisonment after being convicted of robbery with aggravating circumstances, rape and kidnapping.
The South African Police Service in Bojanala Platinum Sub-District 2 welcomed the sentence handed down to Thabang Letsholo by the Tlhabane Magistrates’ Court on 1 July 2026.
The case relates to a violent incident that took place on the evening of 17 November 2023 in Freedom Park, Rustenburg. According to SAPS, Letsholo confronted a young couple, attacked the female victim and robbed the pair of a cellphone, laptop and their shoes.
He was arrested two days later and remained in custody until his conviction on 29 June 2026.
The court sentenced Letsholo to 15 years’ direct imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances on count one. He received another 15 years for a second robbery count, which will run concurrently with the first count. He was also sentenced to 15 years’ direct imprisonment for rape.
Letsholo was further declared unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act.
The investigation was led by Detective Sergeant Thabiso Sefora of Phokeng SAPS. The matter was prosecuted by Advocate Mputla and presided over by Magistrate Mmamabolo.
Acting District Commissioner Brigadier Mamotsamai Ntoagae welcomed the sentence, saying it reflected the justice system’s firm stance against violent crime.
“This sentence sends a strong message that perpetrators of violent crimes, particularly those targeting vulnerable victims, will face the full might of the law. I commend the investigating officer, the prosecution and everyone who contributed to ensuring justice was served,” said Ntoagae.
The sentence brings closure to a case that began with a traumatic attack in 2023 and ended with a lengthy prison term nearly three years later.
