On 22 May 2019 three men were assaulted by security officers and a foreman after they were caught allegedly attempting to steal maize at a farm in Kroonstad. They were allegedly assaulted with sticks and sjamboks and also kicked and choked. Two were hospitalised and the third one, Meshack Rakaki (31) was found dead in the grass next to the Kroonstad / Viljoenskroon Road.
The suspects, Cornelius Gideon Keller (26), Toko Jonas Molise (21), Paballo Maselesele (23), Abraham Hlalele (24) and Tiisetso Maseli (25), were arrested by the Kroonstad Cluster Task Team on the charges of murder and two counts of attempted murder.
They appeared in Kroonstad Magistrate’s Court and were all remanded in custody until their next court appearance on 29 May 2019 for bail application.
The Cluster Commander of Kroonstad, Brigadier Mapuleng Mbeloane applauded the members for their swift action and thorough investigation in connecting the cases and ensuring that those responsible are brought to book.
South Africa Today – South Africa News
