13 Apr 2025

A 39-year-old teacher at Ditsweletse Junior Secondary School in Letlhakane, Mbaakanyi Gonde was on Friday remanded in custody on allegations of raping a 15-year-old girl of the same school.

Particulars of the matter are that on April 8 the accused summoned the victim to the school art lab where he locked themselves in the storeroom and had unconsented sex with the girl.

Superintendent Michael Maphephu of Letlhakane police, said the incident was reported to them on Wednesday and the victim was taken to the hospital for examination, while results came out indicating that indeed there was penetration.

Investigating officer in the matter, Constable Onalenna Leboko-Phadisa of Police Gender and Child Protection Unit, pleaded with court to remand the accused while she was still collecting statements from witnesses, being teachers and students.  She further noted the matter was still fresh and that the accused might intimidate and influence witnesses before completion of investigations. Gonde will remain behind bars until April 24 for next mention. ENDS