A 26-year-old man, convicted of kidnapping, rape, and murder has been handed a heavy sentence. The Polokwane High Court has convicted and sentenced Lehlogonolo Masehla to two life terms and a further 10 years imprisonment for the murder of 6-year-old Bokamoso Tjabadi in August 2021.

THE VICTIM'S BODY WAS DISCOVERED IN MURDERER'S SHACK

The court heard that the accused, kidnapped, raped, and killed little Bokamoso who was reported missing by her family three days earlier in August 2021. The family and community members searched for her until her uncle insisted that they search the neighbour's shack. Masehla was known as a criminal who robbed community members at knifepoint. The victim's half-naked body was found with her head covered in a maize sack inside Masehla's shack. Limpopo police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said at the time, the victim was last seen playing outside her grandmother's house. "She was found half naked and dead at the accused's house at Phokoane, Mmakophala village in Sekhukhune," Ledwaba said. The accused was subsequently arrested and the case of kidnapping, rape, and murder was opened and transferred to Nebo Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit," Ledwaba said. The docket was assigned to Detective Warrant Officer Moses Mmatema for investigation. The case was initially trialed in Nebo Magistrates Court and later transferred to the Polokwane High Court for further hearing. "Detective Warrant Officer Moses Mmatema ensured that the accused Lehlogonolo was never granted bail until he was found guilty," Ledwaba added.

Bokamoso Tjabadi's killer has been sent to jail for life

SENTENCE WELCOMED 

Masehla was given a life sentence for murder, another life sentence for rape, and ten years for kidnapping. The sentences will run concurrently, and the accused was also declared unfit to possess a firearm. Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has welcomed the outcome of imprisonment for two life sentences.