Molahlehi Peter Takalimane, 39, is facing three counts of rape, assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, and malicious damage to property. He appeared briefly before the Odendaalsrus Magistrate’s Court, which transferred the matter to the regional court for trial.

Takalimane is expected to appear on 26 August for trial-related proceedings, said Free State NPA spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane.

“The accused first appeared before the district court on 15 May. During his subsequent appearance on 12 June, he initially sought bail but later abandoned the application. He remains in custody.”

The charges arise from an alleged incident on 13 May while Takalimane was an admitted patient at Thusanong hospital. The state says Takalimane chased female nurses through the hospital ward corridors before forcibly pulling a 60-year-old professional nurse into a toilet. It is alleged that he assaulted her by punching and kicking her before raping her.

The state further alleges Takalimane damaged a glass door and the victim’s spectacles during the incident.

“The NPA strongly condemns the alleged attack on a healthcare professional who was carrying out her duties in service of the public. Healthcare workers play a vital role in society and have the right to perform their responsibilities in a safe and secure environment, free from violence, intimidation, and abuse,” said Senokoatsane.

He added the NPA was committed to presenting its case before the regional court and would pursue the matter “without fear, favour, or prejudice”.

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