Three Mmatshepe villagers, Ontlametse Masibi (24), Itumeleng Lehulere (37) and Mokgatle Sejake (40) were remanded in custody upon appearance before the Molopo Magistrates’ Court in Mmabatho on Thursday, 28 September 2023, facing charges of kidnapping, murder, arson and malicious damage to property.
The accused were arrested by the Provincial Detectives on Wednesday, 27 September 2023, subsequent to intensive investigation and suspect raiding operation. It is alleged that the suspects kidnapped Kabelo Majoro on Thursday, 29 June this year. Majoro who was accused of stock theft, was found dead the following day near to Magojane farm.
The accused were further linked with the violence, which flared up in the village in August. During the incident, several houses including those used for training and consultations by traditional healers as well two vehicles were set alight. The third vehicle was damaged. The incidents, with exception of the kidnapping and murder, occurred after the callous murder of Chief Gopane Phillip Motuba (65).
The accused are expected to reappear before the court on Thursday, 5 October 2023, for a formal bail application. Meanwhile, investigations into the alleged murder of Chief Motuba are underway and no arrest has been effected.
The Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena applauded the team for their hard work. Further to that, he urged the community to come forth with any information that can assist in solving all the crimes reported in the village.
Content retrieved from: https://www.saps.gov.za/newsroom/msspeechdetail.php?nid=48686.
