Qacha’s Nek, Nov.07 — Qacha’s Nek Magistrate Court Senior Magistrate Ts’eliso Bale has sentenced Tlotlisang Thamae (19) of Ha Rapase to eight years in prison, with the option of a M8000 fine for the statutory rape of his 13-year-old girlfriend.
Payment is deferred until March 31, 2025, meaning Thamae remains free until then but faces detention if the fine is unpaid.
In delivering the verdict, Magistrate Bale stated that after considering all evidence, including the young age of the victim, the court found Thamae guilty.
Despite being a first-time offender, Bale also noted that Thamae had saved the court’s time by pleading guilty and highlighted the importance of upholding the law in such cases.
“The circumstances suggest a consensual relationship, but the law is clear on age limits,” said Bale adding “each year we face such dilemmas, but the law must take its course,” he said.
Thamae was charged under Sexual Offences Act of 2003 for an incident that occurred on June 16, 2024 . . .
