Picture: Three of four accused persons, Bakang, Phenyo Katong, and Katlego Mosimege in a murder trial/Facebook
By OBAKENG MAJE
A murder case against an alleged drug lord and his co-accused persons is ready for trial. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the state has received the results of the DNA sample that was taken from one of the accused persons, Phenyo Katong’s vehicle.
The presiding officer, magistrate Boy Zulu highlighted that, the state has acquired the services of the new magistrate to preside over this case. Zulu has since excused himself from this case as he presided over a rape case involving one of the accused persons, Bakang Katong.
Katong was found guilty of rape and Zulu is expected to sentence him on 6 June 2023.
Bakang Katong (32), Thabang Lenyai (23), Phenyo Katong (34), and Katlego Mosimege (31) were arrested a year ago for allegedly killing Thabiso Mothibedi (35) after accusing him of stealing R20 000 cash and cigarettes worth R600 from Katong’s house in Manthe village, near Taung.
The four accused persons briefly appeared at the Taung Regional Court on Wednesday and their case was postponed to 24 May 2023 for trial.
The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said the preliminary investigation revealed that on 29 April 2022, the deceased was at Longaneng village in Taung, when the accused fetched and ferried him back to Manthe village.
“Upon arrival, the deceased was allegedly chained to a generator and assaulted. After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to a local clinic by the accused for medical attention, however, he was declared dead upon arrival. The accused were arrested and charged with murder,” Tselanyane said.
On 1 May 2022, the community members were up in arms and torched three houses and a bakkie belonging to Katong’s family. Seven people have been arrested regarding the incident and charged with arson and looting.
The Guardian 