By BAKANG MOKOTO
27 February 2025- Three men were sentenced to life imprisonment for murder, 15 years for attempted murder and 10 years imprisonment for contravening the Immigration Act by the Bafokeng Regional Court in Rustenburg. The accused, Rapula Solomon Ramadikela (34), Kefiloe Victor Tsoloane (36), and Dumisane Matejwana Ndaba (22), were found guilty for the murder of Jeremiah Sello Hamel (45) and the attempted murder of Koketso Thakadu and Neo Liteli (both 19).
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Sivenathi Gunya said the convictions stem from an incident on 16 February 2023, in Freedom Park, Rustenburg. Gunya said evidence presented in court revealed that Hamel was driving a Ford Ranger with two passengers when a separate altercation unfolded near a local tavern.
“Koketso Thakadu, one of the victims, became agitated upon seeing his girlfriend speaking with a Quantum taxi driver outside the tavern. Acting out of jealousy and anger, Thakadu threw liquor bottles at the taxi, damaging its windows.
“The taxi driver, Solomon Ramadikela, later gathered his associates, Tsoloane and Ndaba, and conspired to retaliate against the individuals in the Ford Ranger. At approximately 3am, the accused tracked down the Ford Ranger and blocked it using two Quantum taxis,” he said.
Gunya further said Ramadikela approached the driver’s side while Tsoloane targeted the passenger’s side. Hamel was shot and died at the scene. He added that, the two passengers, Thakadu and Liteli, managed to escape while being fired upon.
“Following police investigations and informant leads, all three accused were arrested. The accused pleaded not guilty to all charges. However, the court found sufficient evidence to convict them.
During sentencing, state prosecutor, Sangweni Zimema, urged the court not to deviate from the prescribed minimum sentence, emphasising the alarming increase in murder cases. Magistrate Segakweng Moeng concurred, ruling that two of the accused acted in common purpose.
Gunya said the court sentenced Ramadikela and Tsoloane to life imprisonment for murder and 15 years for attempted murder (sentences to run concurrently). He said Ndaba was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for contravening the Immigration Act.
“The court further ordered his deportation to Lesotho upon completion of his sentence,” said Gunya.
Meanwhile, welcoming the sentences, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, commended the investigative and prosecution teams for their dedication.
“We stand united in our resolve to ensure justice is served. Violent crimes will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will face the full force of the law,” she said.
The Guardian 