Cornelius Sebothoma, a 51-year-old school principal, was granted R3 000 bail by the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Thursday after being charged with the sexual assault of a learner. The case has been postponed to 20 October 2025 for further proceedings.
The allegations against Sebothoma stem from an incident that is reported to have occurred on Saturday, 16 August 2025, at approximately 11:00 at a local school in the Lebowakgomo policing area, under the Capricorn District.
According to the reported details, a 17-year-old female learner had gone to the principal’s office to retrieve her cellphone, which had been confiscated by a teacher during class. The victim had made several previous attempts to collect her phone but was unsuccessful as the principal was not available.
On the day of the alleged assault, the principal reportedly instructed the learner to come alone to his office. The victim complied, first informing a friend to wait outside before entering. It is alleged that once inside the office, Sebothoma touched the learner inappropriately and sexually assaulted her.
The victim reported the incident to her family, who subsequently brought the matter to the Lebowakgomo Police Station on Wednesday, 20 August 2025. The case was immediately transferred to the specialized Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for investigation.
Following a swift investigation, the suspect was arrested and charged with sexual assault. He made his initial court appearance shortly thereafter, where the conditions for his R3 000 bail were set. The matter will resume in court on 20 October 2025.