It expressed determination to ensure that perpetrators of gender-based violence and crimes against children are held accountable following the sentencing of a perpetrator found guilty of raping a minor in Bloemfontein. The accused was sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to the rape of a three-year-old at a crèche in Phase 6.

Free State social development MEC Mathabo Hlalele welcomed the sentence handed down in the case of the State v. Vuyisane Makeleni, describing it as a step towards righteousness and justice for the young victim and her family. She strongly condemned the “brutal and inhumane act”, stating that such crimes have no place in society and must be met with the full might of the law.

“This is a deeply disturbing and heartbreaking incident. The violation of a child in a place that is meant to provide care and safety is unacceptable. We strongly condemn this act of brutality and call for continued vigilance in protecting our children,” she said.

The Free State department of education reportedly discovered the centre had been operating illegally. It instituted criminal charges of child neglect and illegal operation against the owner. The victim’s mother meanwhile, laid rape case charges against the perpetrator, who was employed there as an assistant.

The minor is believed to have been raped in a toilet at the Stars of Tomorrow crèche. Her mother, 26, reported the incident on Thursday, 9 May 2024. The child disclosed the ordeal after being questioned by her mother, said Free State police spokesperson Sgt Sinah Mpakane.

The child informed her mother the suspect had taken her to the toilet, where he started sexually assaulting her before she ran outside half-naked. He fetched her and assaulted her for running off.

‘The violation of a child in a place that is meant to provide 
care and safety is unacceptable’

“The suspect proceeded to dress her,” Mpkane said. “The victim was taken for medical examination with the doctor, confirming that the child had been raped.”

Hlalele expressed concern over the operation of unregistered early childhood development centres, noting the crèche involved in the incident was found to be operating illegally. She emphasised the importance of ensuring that all facilities caring for children comply with legal and safety norms and standards.

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OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm