Media Statement
South African Police Service
Office of the Provincial Commissioner Free State

PHUTHADITJHABA - The Phuthaditjhaba Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit, in collaboration with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), successfully secured convictions in two separate rape cases dating back to 2023 and 2024. Both accused were sentenced to direct imprisonment by the Phuthaditjhaba Regional Court.

In the first case, an 8-year-old girl was living with her mother and stepfather, Daniel Semase (42), at Makong Village, Qwaqwa. It later emerged through concerned community members that during the mother’s absence, the child was repeatedly sexually violated by the accused. The matter was reported to the police in November 2023, leading to his arrest and prosecution. On 21 August 2025, Semase was convicted and sentenced to 16 years direct imprisonment for rape.

In the second case, on 10 September 2024, an 18-year-old woman from Mabolela Village, Qwaqwa, was sleeping in the same house with her sister when Toka Mphuthi (20) broke into their home armed with a knife. After threatening to stab her, he forced her onto the bed and raped her. On 22 August 2025, Mphuthi was convicted and sentenced to 10 years direct imprisonment for rape.

The SAPS commends the courage of community members who reported these crimes, ensuring justice for the victims. We urge communities not to remain silent but to continue speaking out against gender-based violence and the abuse of women and children.

Ends

Enquiries:
Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring
082 455 6176

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