The conviction of 53-year-old Daniel Sehemo eminates from an incident that took place on 3 February 2022, at Sekhing village near Taung, where Sehemo broke into the home of an elderly lady with the intent of raping her.

The North West National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson, Henry Mamothame, says the accused strangled and raped the woman before fleeing the scene.  He adds that the victim reported the incident to the police and Sehemo was arrested and denied bail. 

"We welcome this conviction and hope that it will bring some closure to the victim, her family and the entire community. We also hope that it will send a strong message to wannabe offenders to refrain from taking part in criminal offences of this nature," he said.

Mamothame further adds that the accused knew the victim very well and also knew that she stayed alone and suffered a stroke a while back. 

He also explained that, in mitigation of the sentence, his defence read a statement wherein he pleaded guilty as an illustration to express remorse for his action.  The state prosecutor, Tecia Khula, urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment, arguing that elderly people are vulnerable and must be protected from the likes of Sehemo.

Mamothame says the victim also took the stand and referred to her ordeal as a painful one, as it was committed by a person she trusted, referring to him as "my son" while giving her evidence.
 
"In a passing sentence, Magistrate Buti Zulu agreed with the state and lamented that society is outraged by rape as it makes them feel unsafe. He further alluded to the responsibility the court has in imposing sentences that will restore the faith of the public in the criminal justice system," concludes Mamothame.

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