THABA NCHU – A repeat rape offender has returned to prison to serve a longer sentence following his conviction by the Thaba Nchu Regional Court in the Free State. The court sentenced Thapelo Johannes Ntoagae (43) to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for raping a minor in 2023. He was sentenced on Tuesday, 9 September raping a 4-year-old in 2023.
Mojalefa Senokoatsane, spokesperson for the National Prosecution Authority, Free State, said the accused had previous rape convictions dating back in 2002 and 2008. He said the rape of the minor occurred on 8 October 2023. He said evidence presented in court revealed Ntoagae took the child to his shack dwelling where he raped her.
“The victim’s mother, unable to find her, sent another child to search after a witness saw Ntoagae with the girl. Upon locating the victim, the mother took her to the hospital, where a doctor confirmed signs of forceful penetration,” said Senokoatsane. He said the prima facie evidence gathered led to Ntoagae being arrested and charged with rape.
“Lacking DNA evidence or a direct eyewitness, the state built a strong circumstantial case. Due to the victim’s age, she did not testify, but a victim impact statement supported the prosecution. This was facilitated by court preparation officer Dipuo Sephapo,” said Senokoatsane.
Senokoatsane said senior Public Prosecutor Ntai Letaba argued in aggravation, noting Ntoagae’s prior convictions: attempted rape in 2002 and rape in 2008, for which he served 20 years. He said the accused was on parole for the second sexual offense.
“This sentence reinforces the fight against gender-based violence, particularly against children,” said Senokoatsane.
