By OBAKENG MAJE
Taung Magistrate’s Court has postponed a murder case against four men from Manthe village in Taung until 15 February 2023. The alleged drug lord and businessman, Bakang “Mahomed” Katong (31), Thabang Lenyai (23), Phenyo “The Great” Katong (34), and Katlego “Makita” Mosimege (31) were arrested a few months ago in connection with the brutal murder of the late Thabiso Mothibedi (35).
It is alleged that Mothibedi stole R20 000 cash and cigarettes worth R600 from Katong’s house two days before his ‘untimely’ death.
The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said: “The preliminary investigation revealed that on 29 April 2022, the deceased was at Lenganeng village near Taung, when the suspects fetched and transported him to Manthe village. Upon arrival, the deceased was allegedly chained to a generator and assaulted.
“After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to Manthe clinic by a group of men and requested nurses to check if he was still alive. However, Mothibedi was certified dead upon arrival.”
The case has been postponed for a possible pre-trial date. The National Prosecuting Agency (NPA) is also expected to engage with various state witnesses.
Meanwhile, three houses and a bakkie belonging to Katong’s family were torched by irate community members on 1 May 2022. Four individuals linked to the arson and looting cases were arrested.
The Guardian 