A 36-year-old man, Teboho Lesekele, has been sentenced to 15 years’ direct imprisonment by the Sasolburg Regional Court following his conviction for rape. The judgment was delivered on Thursday, 21 May 2026.
The case relates to a violent attack that took place on Sunday, 30 March 2025, at approximately 02:00. The 31-year-old victim was at a Sasolburg pub when she asked a male acquaintance for transportation to Zamdela. Lesekele agreed to provide the lift, and the pair set off in the direction of Zamdela.
During the journey, the victim directed the accused toward her home. Lesekele, however, became aggressive, ignored her instructions, and diverted to his own residence in Extension 3, Zamdela.
Once they arrived, the accused forcibly pulled the victim from his vehicle and dragged her inside the house, where he proceeded to rape her.
At approximately 07:00 on Monday, 31 March 2025, Lesekele escorted the victim toward her home. She was able to reach her residence safely and promptly reported the assault to the Zamdela South African Police Service (SAPS).
Detective Sergeant Agnes Mankge, attached to the Zamdela Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, led the investigation. Her diligent work was instrumental in securing the prosecution and eventual conviction of the accused.
The court imposed a 15-year direct imprisonment term, underscoring the gravity of the offense and delivering justice for the survivor.