A South African man has been convicted of severe crimes, including rape, child pornography, and kidnapping, involving two young girls.
Letlhogonolo Mothlapeng, 35, was found guilty on 10 counts following a trial that exposed the brutal nature of his offenses.
Phindi Mjonondwane, spokesperson for the Gauteng National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), said the crimes took place in February 2023. Mothlapeng kidnapped the girls at gunpoint while they were walking in Tarlton, Krugersdorp.
“He stopped his vehicle, pointed a gun at them, and ordered them to get in. They obeyed out of fear,” Mjonondwane explained.
Mothlapeng then took the girls to his home in Magaliesburg, where he forced them to undress and pose for explicit photos and videos.
“He made child pornography showing the girls in sexual acts with him and raped them while they were together in his room,” Mjonondwane said.
To silence the victims, Mothlapeng threatened to post the explicit content online if they reported him. Despite this, the courageous girls informed the police, leading to Mothlapeng’s arrest at his home the same day.
During the trial, advocate Rachel Kau, who represented the prosecution, called one of the victims to testify. The girl described how Mothlapeng forced her and her friend into his bed and subjected them to a traumatic experience.
“The court reviewed a video recorded by Mothlapeng during the crimes, which was crucial evidence,” Mjonondwane noted. “With such strong evidence, the court found it impossible for Mothlapeng to deny his guilt.”
Mothlapeng faces multiple charges, including kidnapping, rape, threats with a firearm, and child pornography. He will be sentenced today, September 2.
