THE trial of rape-accused Bafokeng Khanye resumed on Friday at the Maseru Magistrate’s Court, after being transferred from the Children’s Court where it had dragged on for years.
Khanye, who appeared before Magistrate Lerato Ntelane, has been charged with the sexual assault of his neighbour’s ?3-year-old ?child in 2021.
According to the charge sheet, Khanye allegedly forced himself upon the 3-year-old minor in the Mazenod area.
Khanye has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Prosecutor Keketso Motiki said that witnesses would be called to testify, given the accused’s not guilty plea.
During her testimony, a witness only known as PW1, recounted how Khanye ?had betrayed their trust by raping the girl. Khanye had been trusted by the family which left the minor in his custody on frequent occasions until the rape incident.
The case resumes tomorrow when the defence will cross examine PW1. ?
Before adjourning the court on Friday, Magistrate Ntelane said it was imperative for the case to resume and conclude as soon as possible, as it had dragged on for years without justification.