Parolee with previous rape conviction sent back to prison for raping girl, aged 4

The Regional Court in Thaba-Nchu has sentenced Thapelo Johannes Ntoagae, 43, to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole after he was found guilty of raping a girl, aged 4. 

The ruling was delivered this week, following a disturbing incident that took place in October, two years ago. 

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Ntoagae lured the child to his shack.

"When the girl's mother realised her daughter was missing, she immediate sought help, sending another child to search for the little girl after witnessing Ntoagae with her. Upon finding the victim, the mother rushed her to the hospital, where medical professionals confirmed signs of forceful penetration," said NPA spokesperson, Mojalefa Senokoatsane.

Authorities were alerted, and police swiftly moved to arrest Ntoagae.

Senokoatsane explained that despite a lack of DNA evidence and no direct eyewitnesses to the crime, the state presented a compelling circumstantial case against him.

"Given the young age of the victim, she was not required to testify; however, a Victim Impact Statement supported by the Court Preparation Officer, Dipuo Sephapo, played a pivotal role in the prosecution," the NPA said. 

Senior Public Prosecutor Ntai Letaba presented a strong case during sentencing, drawing attention to Ntoagae’s past convictions for attempted rape in 2002 and rape in 2008, for which he had served a lengthy 20-year sentence and was released on parole prior to this offence.

The court, recognising the severity and brutality of Ntoagae’s actions, delivered a sentence that guarantees he will remain incarcerated for life.

IOL