By OBAKENG MAJE
A case of arson against seven accused from Manthe village, near Taung will resume at Taung Magistrate’s Court on 29 August 2022. The former soccer star, Odiseng “Teenage” Komane (41), Obakeng “Prosto” Mogabale (46), Mothusi Motimeng, Pretty “Zero” Masibelele (36), Ali Sakiele (50), Ontiretse Patrick Gosenyegang (38) and the former Mega Stars FC goalie, Katlego “Makgasa” Tikane (32) who are out on R500 bail each, were nabbed two months ago by the police during an intelligence-driven operation.
In May 2022, the community members embarked on a violent protest and torched three houses, and a vehicle, including looting alcohol from Disoufeng tavern. They accused the tavern owner and alleged drug lord, Bakang Katong (34) of murder.
It is alleged that Bakang, his brother, Phenyo “The Great” Katong (34), Thabang Lenyai (23), and Katlego “Makita” Mosimege (31) brutally killed Thabiso Mothibedi (35) in cold blood.
The police preliminary investigation revealed that on 29 April 2022, Mothibedi was at Lenganeng village near Taung, and Katong and his cronies allegedly fetched and transported him to Manthe village after accusing him of stealing R20 000 and cigarettes worth R600.
Upon arrival, the group of men allegedly chained the deceased to a generator and assaulted him. Subsequently, the accused allegedly transported Mothibedi to Manthe clinic where he was declared dead on his arrival.
North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said: “We can confirm that the police have arrested seven suspects for arson and they were granted R500 bail each. They are expected to appear in court on 21 July 2022 and investigations into the matter continue.”
Meanwhile, advocate Tebogo Letloleleng, who is representing all seven accused confirmed that, his clients were charged with three counts of arson including looting.
“When we discuss the matter from a legal point of view, there is what we call a recent possession. For example, you burn the house now and you are arrested immediately. However, the incident took place three months ago, and only now, have the police arrested my clients.
“In actual fact, it took them three months to make arrests. All along, the police went out to look for statements, which might be true or not,” he said.
The Guardian 