By OBAKENG MAJE
Three men who were arrested for murder, kidnapping, arson, and malicious damage to property in Matshepe village, near Mahikeng were remanded in custody. Ontlametse Masibi (24), Itumeleng Lehulere (37), and Mokgatle Sejake (40), briefly appeared at Molopo Magistrate’s Court on 28 September 2023.
The North West police spokesperson, Brig Sabata Mokgwabone said the accused were arrested by the Provincial Detectives on 27 September 2023 after an intensive investigation and suspect raiding operation. Mokgwabone alleged that the suspects kidnapped Kabelo Majoro on 29 June 2023.
“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 2023. During the incident, several houses including those used for training and consultations by traditional healers as well as two vehicles were set alight, while the third vehicle was damaged.
“The incidents, with the exception of the kidnapping and murder, occurred after the callous murder of Chief Gopane Phillip Motuba (65). The case against the accused was postponed to 5 October 2023 for a formal bail application,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mokgwabone said the investigations into the alleged murder of Motuba is still underway and no arrest has been effected.
The North West Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, applauded the police for their hard work. Kwena further urged the community to come forth with any information that could assist in solving all the crimes reported in the village.
The Guardian 