Free State barber sentenced to four life terms for raping minor boys
Free State Barber Sentenced to Four Life Terms for Raping Young Boys in His Shack-Salon
Image: pixabay
A Free State man who operated a hair salon from his rented shack in Malebogo township has been sentenced to four life terms for the rape of four minor boys.
The Wesselsbron Regional Court handed down the sentence on Wednesday, 30 October 2025, after finding the accused guilty on four counts of rape involving boys aged 12, 13, and two aged 15.
According to police, the incidents occurred in May 2024 at the accused’s shack, which doubled as both his residence and a barbershop.
Free State police spokesperson Sergeant Mahlomola Kareli said that the rape incidents occurred at the accused's rented shack, when the first two victims were lured into the premises after school under the pretense of receiving haircuts. Once inside, they were sexually assaulted in a back room.
The third victim was brought to the shack by the first two boys and was also assaulted.
"The fourth victim, a 12-year-old relative of the accused (his nephew), was visiting the premises and was also sexually assaulted in the shack," says Kareli
He said none of the victims initially reported the assaults.
The crimes only came to light after one of the boys confided in a teacher, prompting a police investigation.
Initially, four cases of rape were opened against the suspect, and investigations on the matter were carried out by Warrant Officer Ntomzoto Selemogo from the Bultfontein Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit with support from National Prosecuting Authority representative Mr Masisi. Their efforts resulted in a conviction and a sentence of four life terms, which will run concurrently.
"The suspect was sentenced to four life sentences and all sentences are to run concurrently," he added
The accused’s name will also be entered into the National Register for Sex Offenders.
Free State police have welcomed the outcome, calling it a strong message against crimes targeting children.
"This successful conviction sends a clear message that crimes against children will be pursued with the utmost seriousness, and perpetrators will face the full might of the law," says Kareli
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