The Mmabatho Regional Court has handed down a life sentence to 33-year-old Phako Tlape for the murder of Sebule Isaac Sebule (31). The conviction and sentencing were finalized this week.
The court heard that the crime occurred on the evening of Saturday, July 29, 2023. Police were dispatched to a tavern in Dithakong West, Lomanyaneng, near Mahikeng, at approximately 18:40 after reports of a fatal stabbing.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the lifeless body of Sebule, who had sustained multiple stab wounds. Officials from the Emergency and Medical Rescue Services (EMRS) were on the scene and formally declared him deceased.
The investigation, led by Warrant Officer Samuel Matiti of the Ngaka Modiri Molema District’s Trio Task Team, progressed swiftly. Through information gathered at the scene, eyewitnesses were able to positively identify the suspect as Phako Tlape. His subsequent arrest was effected later that same day.
In addition to the life sentence for murder, the court invoked Section 103(1) of the Firearm Control Act, Act 60 of 2000. As a result, Tlape has been formally declared unfit to possess a firearm.
