By Kabelo Abel Mokgalabone
LEBOWAKGOMO – A 20-year-old female learner, Ofentse Selepe, who was arrested on Saturday, 1 November 2025, for allegedly pouring hot water on a 19-year-old male learner, has been granted R500 bail to allow her to continue with her matric examinations.
The victim, Kganya Matabane, was rushed to Lebowakgomo Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment for serious burn injuries sustained during the incident.
Selepe appeared before the Thabamoopo Magistrate’s Court in Lebowakgomo on Monday, 3 November. Her lawyer reportedly filed an urgent bail application at the Polokwane High Court, arguing that she should be released to write her final exams.
In a shocking development, our sister publication Polokwane Weekly has learned that the suspect has also opened a counter charge of rapeagainst the victim, alleging that he had touched her private parts before the altercation.
According to sources, the incident allegedly took place at a boys’ camp at Kgagatlou Secondary School in Seleteng Village, where Selepe had joined the camp claiming that the victim was her friend.
The victim’s family has expressed deep disappointment over the court’s decision to grant bail, saying it is unfair that the accused continues with her exams while their son lies in hospital fighting for his life.
The case has been postponed to 5 December 2025 for further investigation.
#TzaneenVoice
