A 53-year-old man has been sentenced to 18 years behind bars after a regional court found him guilty of raping a young woman in a village home nearly seven years ago.
Legakwane Edwin Kanono was convicted in the Taung Regional Court on Wednesday, 25 March 2026, on charges of rape and housebreaking with intent to commit a crime known to the State. The matter dates back to an incident in Morokweng village, Taung, that left a then 25-year-old woman traumatised.
How the attack unfolded
According to evidence presented in court, the victim had travelled to Morokweng on 26 May 2019 to visit her uncle. After spending time at a nearby tavern, she returned to the house and noticed the lights were switched on, leading her to believe her uncle was home.
Instead, she was confronted by Kanono inside the property. He attempted to seize her, and although she managed to break free initially, the accused gave chase, overpowered her and sexually assaulted her.
Following his conviction, the court imposed the following sentences: 18 years of direct imprisonment for the rape charge, and a fine of R4 000 or two years' imprisonment for the housebreaking offence. In addition, the presiding officer ordered that Kanono's name be placed on the National Register for Sex Offenders.
Senior police brass welcome conviction
Acting Provincial Commissioner of Police in North West, Major General Dr Ryno Naidoo, welcomed the outcome and lauded the investigative work that led to the successful prosecution.
"Their dedication and professionalism ensured that justice was served."
Naidoo singled out Detective Captain Keolebogile Moleele from the Pudimoe Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for her diligent efforts in building the case. The prosecution team was also recognised for its role in securing the conviction.
The sentencing sends a firm message that perpetrators of gender-based violence will face the full might of the law, regardless of how long ago the offence was committed.
South Africans continue to face alarming levels of gender-based violence, making sentences like this one significant for communities demanding accountability and safety. The seven-year gap between the crime and conviction highlights both the persistence of investigators and the slow pace of justice that many victims endure. For residents of rural areas such as Taung, the outcome may offer reassurance that cases will be pursued, though sustained pressure on law enforcement and courts remains essential to addressing the broader crisis.
