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DNA links Free State man to 16 QwaQwa rape cases

Published

Police say DNA evidence from the latest case led to the arrest of James Juta Molakeng, 36, on 27 August. Further analysis allegedly tied him to 15 earlier rapes, committed between 2008 and 2024.

Police spokesperson W/O Mmako Mophiring said Molakeng allegedly raped women in all 16 cases, including attacks near graveyards and inside homes. She said he allegedly targeted women who walked alone, some of them on their way home from taverns. In two of the 15 earlier cases, she said, he allegedly robbed houses before raping the victims inside.

Investigators from the Phuthaditjhaba Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences unit pursued the DNA evidence. The cases happened in places in the QwaQwa area of the Free State, including Makwane village, Thaba-Bosiu, Namahadi and Phuthaditjhaba.

Molakeng remains in custody. His case was postponed to 9 January 2027 for a high court date.

Key facts

Who
James Juta Molakeng (36-year-old accused rapist, arrested August 27); W/O Mmako Mophiring (police spokesperson); Phuthaditjhaba Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) unit (police unit whose investigators pursued the DNA evidence)
What
Police say DNA evidence from the latest case led to the arrest of James Juta Molakeng, and further analysis allegedly linked him to 15 earlier rapes. He was arrested on August 27, remains in custody, and his case was postponed to January 9 2027 for a high court date.
When
8 November 2026
Where
QwaQwa, Mangaung, Makwane village
Status
Reported

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