MAN LINKED TO RAPE THROUGH DNA SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the conviction and sentencing of 32-year-old Akanyang Tlhoke to 30 years’ direct imprisonment for the rape of a 15-year-old girl.

The sentence was handed down by the Molopo Regional Court, underscoring the justice system's commitment to holding perpetrators of sexual offences accountable and ensuring justice for victims.

The court heard that on 20 September 2019, the victim was on her way to visit a friend in Mosiane View when Tlhoke accosted her. Armed with a knife, he forced the victim into nearby bushes, where he raped her.

Tlhoke was not known to the victim. However, thorough investigations led to his identification through DNA evidence, which conclusively linked him to the offence. Faced with the overwhelming evidence presented by the State, he subsequently pleaded guilty to the charge.

The State, represented by Advocate Kefentse Diseko, argued for the imposition of the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, given the serious nature of the offence. While the court found that substantial and compelling circumstances existed to justify a deviation from the prescribed minimum sentence, it nevertheless imposed a lengthy custodial sentence of 30 years’ direct imprisonment.

In addition to the prison sentence, Tlhoke was declared unfit to work with children, his name was ordered to be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders, and he was declared unfit to possess a firearm.

Welcoming the outcome, the Director of Public Prosecutions in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, said the sentence serves as a reminder that perpetrators cannot evade justice indefinitely and that law enforcement agencies and prosecutors remain steadfast in their pursuit of accountability for crimes committed against vulnerable members of society.

The NPA commends the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved in securing this conviction and sentence. The successful use of DNA evidence in this matter highlights the critical role of forensic science in the prosecution of sexual offences and in ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.

The NPA remains firmly committed to combating Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and ensuring that perpetrators of sexual offences face the full might of the law. The Authority will continue to pursue justice for victims and support efforts aimed at protecting women and children from violence and abuse.

Issued by:

Lindiwe Mabasa

 NPA Communications Officer

 North West Division