Seshego community fume over rape of boy (12)
The community is in disbelief of how a man, who they say is liked by many, could be associated with such a crime, as many a resident told BONUS of how he would be seen helping boys repair their bicycles.
POLOKWANE – The community of Seshego is puzzled as to how Moses Chokoe, who stands accused of the rape of a minor boy, preyed his way into the boy’s life to committing the crime.
Chokoe’s first appearance in court was on April 26, a day after he was arrested in Seshego.
The community is in disbelief of how a man, who they say is liked by many, could be associated with such a crime, as many a resident told BONUS of how he would be seen helping boys repair their bicycles.
The 35-year-old Chokoe is said to have been approached by a 12-year-old boy on social media, where Chokoe put his bicycle up for sale, Sgt Ali Maluleke confirmed to Bonus.
“When the boy negotiated to pay less than the asking price, the bicycle was sold to the boy and the accused became a regular visitor to the family home.”
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According to Maluleke, the accused on a particular day asked the boy’s brother to go and buy them food, and this is when the crime was committed.
The boy informed his parents who alerted the police, prompting Chokoe’s arrest on April 25 with the assistance of the community, Malukele added.
Clinical psychotherapist, Dr Trupti Jayin, said the lasting effects of rape on children are often irreparable and can also cause a cycle of rape in a particular community.
“A childhood history of physical and mental violence results in suppressed anger, and hatred towards family members can result in the person feeling unloved and unworthy. The child slowly believes the only way to get love, is through force.”
Community leader, Vincent Kunutu says their organisation, Seshego Community Against Crime and Gangsterism (Scagag) is now creating awareness among parents to be more protective of their children, in fear of what he says are ‘smooth operators’.
“No one must collect or see your child at school without your permission. Ensure that your child plays within the homestead yard where you can monitor them. Inform them not to speak to strangers,” his latest statement to residents reads.
Chokoe remains in police custody until his appearance before the same court next week, on a date yet to be confirmed, Maluleke said.
