Out on bail awaiting trial for three rapes committed in and around Francistown two years ago, a suspected sexual predator is said to have struck in Maun, allegedly attacking two ladies in a single night.
Keobakile Puso, 38, stands accused of raping a young woman at knifepoint in Boyei ward on 17 March.
Police believe the Shashe Bridge native then made away with her cellphone, a Techno Camon worth P4, 200, her spectacles plus P5, 000 in cash.
Later that same night, in nearby Sanyedi ward, Puso reportedly tried his luck again, allegedly attempting to rape a second woman.
Although it seems she managed to fight off the armed attacker’s advances, the knife-wielding suspect is said to have helped himself to her Samsung A03 mobile phone valued at P4, 000.
The suspect was arrested later that day, with Acting Maun Station Commander, Moutlwatsi Ikobeng revealing he was apprehended while trying to sell the stolen Tecno Camon.
Appearing before Maun Magistrates Court on Tuesday, Puso, who pleaded not-guilty, was charged with rape, attempted rape and two counts of robbery.
In an unexpected boost, considering how long such cases normally take, the prosecution announced police investigations into both matters were complete.
The state explained all that’s left is to serve the accused with an updated charge sheet (his place of residence was mistakenly recorded as Nshakashogwe instead of Shashe Bridge) and all relevant witness statements.
While the complainants are said to have positively identified the accused during a formal identification parade, the forensic results are expected to be the cornerstone of the formal evidence submission.
Remanded in custody, Puso, who was staying with relatives in Sanyedi ward at the time of the offences, is due back in court on 19 May for mention and possible setting of trial dates.
He first found himself in the news back in March 2024, when he was arrested in connection with the rape of a 64-year-old woman in Francistown’s Block 3 location.
