Convicted rapist, Tshepo Jan Malatji (28) from Sebayeng village in Turfloop.
Tshepo Jan Malatji (28) from Sebayeng village in Turfloop, was sentenced to 10 years direct imprisonment for the rape of a 17-year-old girl in Ga-Sekgopo village.
The court heard that, on 9 April 2020, at approximately 18:00, the victim was sent to a spaza shop by her mother. On her way back, she was grabbed by Malatji who threatened to kill her and dragged her to a river where he raped her.
The victim reported the incident to her mother, who identified Malatji using the description provided by her daughter. The police were called, and he was arrested. The victim received medical attention, and the case docket was transferred to the Tzaneen Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offenses Unit for further investigation.
Detective Sergeant Mathebula Glenda successfully opposed the accused’s application for bail, and the DNA test report linked him to the crime.
Malatji admitted to the commission of the crime and pleaded guilty on 11 September 2024 at the Tzaneen Regional Court, resulting in his sentencing to 10 years imprisonment.