By Teboho Moloi
BLOEMFONTEIN – The Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court has sentenced Lehlohonolo Weleman of Matatiele location to 27 years’ imprisonment for raping and assaulting his 38-year-old adopted sister.
Weleman was convicted of rape and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm following a two-year investigation led by Captain Nikiwe Mokatsanyane of the Mangaung Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit.
The court heard that on 27 December 2024, the victim returned home from a family gathering and later went to bed.
During the night she heard a window break and went to investigate, where she found Weleman outside. After he assured her it was him and asked her not to scream, she opened the door.
Once inside, however, Weleman allegedly pulled out a knife, threatened the victim and raped her. The court heard he used protection during the assault and later threatened to kill her because she could identify him. The victim pleaded for her life.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Sinah Mpakane said the accused slept at the house after the attack. The following morning the victim managed to go to a police station and report the incident, leading to Weleman’s arrest.
Weleman, an orphan who had been taken in by the victim’s family and was a member of her father’s church congregation, was found guilty on all counts.
The court also ordered that he be placed on the National Register for Sexual Offenders and declared unfit to possess a firearm.
