KIMBERLEY – A 46-year-old man, Tshepo Lovemore Morole, has been sentenced to life imprisonment after being found guilty of the rape of a 20-year-old woman in Kimberley in November 2023.
The incident occurred on Friday 3 November 2023, at approximately 04:00, when the victim was walking home and noticed three men following her. Upon catching up with her, one of the men struck her on the head with a hammer, rendering her unconscious.
The victim could not recall what transpired whilst she was unconscious. Upon regaining consciousness, she found herself in an unfamiliar yard, partially undressed, next to an unknown man who was holding a hammer.
When the man realised that the victim had regained consciousness, he discarded the hammer and attempted to assist her. The victim managed to push him away and fled to a nearby house to seek help, whilst the suspect fled the scene.
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According to Lieutenant Colonel Thabo Litabe, police spokesperson, the matter was reported to the police and a case was registered at Kimberley Police Station.
The investigation was assigned to Detective Sergeant Moreetsimang Mogakwe of the Kimberley Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit.
Through diligent investigation and the victim’s detailed description, Mogakwe was able to identify and arrest the suspect. DNA evidence further linked the accused to the crime.
The accused was subsequently convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment by the Kimberley Regional Court. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The District Commissioner of the Frances Baard District, Major General Gabathata Makgari, welcomed the sentence and commended Mogakwe for his dedication and perseverance in securing the conviction.
She issued a stern warning to perpetrators of gender-based violence and femicide, expressing hope that the sentence would serve as a strong deterrent to those who undermine the rule of law through the abuse of women.
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