Picture: The deceased, Katlego Segwai and Omphile Mokoto
By OBAKENG MAJE
29 September 2026 – The police in Taung are probing two murder cases of Katlego Segwai (26) and Omphile Mokoto, who were reported missing after being allegedly abducted by community members in Extension 7, Taung a few months ago. The two men were found dead two weeks apart.
The Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Tryphosa van Rooyen said Segwai was allegedly abducted together with his friend, Mokoto, after the two men were accused by community members of breaking into a property. Van Rooyen said the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the two men are under investigation.
“It is alleged that the two men were caught breaking in and community members decided to take matters into their own hands. The bodies of both young men were found separately in two different locations.
“Mokoto’s body was reportedly discovered about a month ago in an open field in Maphoitsile village, near Taung. Segwai, who had been reported missing, was found dead after two weeks. We can confirm that we are aware of the matter, however, no arrests have been made at this stage,” she said.
Van Rooyen further said the investigations continue. She added that the cases currently remain registered as inquests and that the charges have yet to be amended.
“We can also confirm that police records do not indicate that a theft or related criminal case had previously been opened against Segwai and Mokoto. The police warned that mob justice can seriously interfere with criminal investigations, particularly when community members become reluctant to provide information to investigators.
“Community members are encouraged to report crimes to the police and allow justice to run its course. The police are continuing with investigations to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the two men and to identify those responsible,” said van Rooyen.
