Suspect tricks then rapes victim

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’MATHATO SEBOKA

MASERU – A man is scheduled to appear in the Maseru Magistrate’s Court on April 2 to face trial on charges of rape. The man from Ha Mohloanyane in Matsieng allegedly forced a 19-year-old girl from the neighbouring village of Tajane into a nearby ravine where he allegedly raped her. Tšepo Mahao, 30, briefly appeared before Magistrate Nkhethoa Molapo on March 18, where he was formally charged with rape.

He was granted bail of M1, 000 under specific conditions, which included refraining from interfering with police investigations or intimidating witnesses. He was also mandated to attend all remand hearings and participate in the trial until its conclusion. However, Mahao was unable to raise the required bail deposit and was consequently ordered to await his trial while in detention at the Maseru Central Prison until the matter is resolved.

Evidence presented in court by the Crown, led by prosecutor Hlojeng, indicates that on March 13, Moleboheng Popele, aged 19, was on her way home from her uncle’s residence when she met Mahao. Investigations conducted by Inspector Nyoe ’Mota from Morija Police reveal that when the two, who apparently knew each other, met at a grazing field they engaged in conversation during which Mahao allegedly instructed Popele to return to Tajane, claiming her uncle needed to convey something to her.

However, a sceptical Popele refused to return to Tajane, arguing that her uncle would contact her directly if he needed to discuss anything with her. She then fled when Mahao insisted that they go to Tajane together. Evidence presented by Inspector ’Mota further indicates that Mahao pursued Popele deep into the field and caught up with her before she could escape. He is alleged to have forcefully dragged her into a nearby ravine, where he allegedly sexually assaulted her. Upon her return to Tajane, Popele recounted the harrowing ordeal to her uncle. Consequently, she was taken to the hospital, where medical examinations confirmed sexual assault.

A search involving members of the community and the community policing forum was initiated, resulting in the apprehension of the suspect. He was subsequently handed over to the Morija police. When questioned about his occupation by Magistrate Molapo, the accused said he is unemployed and works as a herder for his family’s livestock, adding that he is separated from his wife.

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