LIMPOPO — A major victory for youth protection has been secured in the province, as a Limpopo predator receives a life sentence following a definitive Gilead child rape conviction. On Friday, August 14, 2026, the Mokerong Magistrate’s Court ensured that 28-year-old Lesetja Frans Molomo will spend the rest of his days behind bars for the brutal sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl.
The severe judicial penalty stems from a disturbing encounter on September 20, 2024. At approximately 3:00 p.m., the minor was visiting a neighborhood shop when she crossed paths with Molomo, a man she recognized. Instead of a benign interaction, the older man forced the child to accompany him back to his homestead, where he forcibly undressed and assaulted her.
In a calculated attempt to maintain control and enforce an unwanted relationship, Molomo handed the traumatized child a mobile phone after the attack. He ordered her to keep the device hidden so he could summon her at his discretion. The psychological devastation inflicted upon the young girl was profound; she barricaded herself inside her bedroom, rejecting meals and expressing suicidal thoughts as she struggled to cope with the trauma in isolation.
The dark secret unraveled when the victim’s sister stumbled upon the illicit cellphone. Pressed for answers, the teenager broke down and confessed to the coerced relationship. Their mother was immediately alerted and contacted local authorities, triggering a specialized criminal probe.
Recognizing the severity of the allegations, the docket was swiftly transferred to the Mokopane Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit. Investigating officer Sergeant Saki Ledwaba spearheaded the manhunt, utilizing relentless detective work to track down and arrest the suspect on November 4, 2024. Molomo was remanded in custody without bail until his trial concluded.
The successful prosecution and subsequent life term have been lauded by top law enforcement officials. SAPS Limpopo Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Scheepers released a statement welcoming the Mokerong Magistrate’s Court’s decision. The Lieutenant General commended the meticulous investigative efforts that removed a dangerous offender from the community, reinforcing the police mandate to fiercely protect the province’s most vulnerable residents from sexual violence.
