By REGINALD KANYANE
An arson case against seven accused from Manthestad village, near Taung was postponed to 21 February 2023 by Taung Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday for further investigations.
The former soccer star, Odiseng “Teenage” Komane (41), Obakeng “Prosto” Mogabale (46), Mothusi Motimeng, Pretty “Zero” Masibelele (36), former Taung Mega Stars FC goalie, Katlego “Makgasa” Tikane (32), Ali Sakiele (50) and Ontiretse Patrick Gosenyegang (38) were arrested for allegedly torching two houses and a bakkie belonging to the alleged drug lord and businessman, Bakang “Mahommed” Katong and his brother, Phenyo (34).
In May 2022, the community members embarked on a violent protest and accused Katong and other three suspects of murder. It is alleged that the Katong brothers, 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 along with 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.
Meanwhile, advocate Tebogo Letloleleng, who is representing all seven accused said, his clients are out on R500 bail each and 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 