…court cites alleged victim’s fear, proximity to accused
Hopolang Mokhopi
A 52-YEAR-OLD Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) sergeant accused of raping a 15-year-old girl has been denied bail after prosecutors told the Maseru Magistrates Court that the child feared him and lived in the same area as him.
Sergeant Tšolo Moru, originally from Ha-Rakhomo in Quthing and currently residing at Ha-Seoli in Maseru, this week appeared before Magistrate Matsotello Mary Khechane-Tsilo on a sexual offence charge.
The Crown opposed his release, telling the court that the alleged victim appeared distressed when she saw Sergeant Moru in the courtroom.
Prosecutor Advocate Lerotholi also argued that releasing the accused could place the girl under further distress because she and Sergeant Moru live in the same area.
Magistrate Khechane-Tsilo agreed and remanded Sergeant Moru in custody.
The matter was postponed to 8 September 2026, when a trial date is expected to be set.
According to the charge sheet, Sergeant Moru allegedly raped the 15-year-old at Ha-Seoli, Maseru, on 16 August 2026.
He was arrested the following day.
Guardian raises alarm
According to a police report, the alleged incident occurred after the girl was sent to Sergeant Moru’s home.
When she did not return after some time, her guardian became concerned and went looking for her.
The guardian allegedly found the girl and Sergeant Moru in circumstances that prompted her to immediately alert police.
Sergeant Moru was subsequently arrested and charged.
During his court appearance, he was informed of his right to apply for bail and to be represented by a lawyer of his choice or through legal aid.
The allegations against Sergeant Moru have not yet been tested at trial. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
