LIMPOPO — The Thohoyandou Regional Court has imposed a strict 22-year direct prison term, denying any option of a fine, on 52-year-old Leonard Ramadzhiela Musiwalo for the rape of a 70-year-old woman in Tshilapfene Village.
Court records indicate the attack took place at approximately 08:30 on 23 August 2019 within the Thohoyandou policing jurisdiction. During the proceedings, it was established that the elderly victim was sleeping in her residence when Musiwalo, a fellow resident of the same village, breached the entrance by forcing the door open. He issued threats of harm before committing the sexual assault.
Following the incident, the suspect escaped the area on foot. Authorities at the local police station promptly registered a formal rape docket, which led to Musiwalo’s arrest the very next day, on 24 August 2019.
The case was subsequently escalated to the Thohoyandou Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) for specialized handling. Investigating officer Sergeant Phumudzo Nemafhohoni demonstrated notable diligence throughout the legal process. She successfully opposed multiple bail applications to ensure the accused remained behind bars pending trial.
These sustained investigative efforts secured his continued detention, culminating in his formal conviction and sentencing on Tuesday, 25 August 2026.
