Picture: Former Sekhukhune United footballer, Mokete Sean Mogaila
By STAFF REPORTER
6 October 2026 – Former Sekhukhune United footballer, Mokete Sean Mogaila, 29, has pleaded guilty to culpable homicide and failure to render assistance following a fatal motor vehicle collision in Tembisa that claimed the life of a nine-year-old girl. Mogaila, who played in the Betway Premiership for Sekhukhune United before leaving the club, appeared before the Tembisa Magistrate’s Court and entered into a guilty plea in terms of Section 112(2) of the Criminal Procedure Act.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson, Magaboke Mohlatlole said Mogaila “admitted to all the elements of the offences” and accepted the facts and allegations presented by the state. Mohlatlole said the charges stem from a collision on Andrew Mapheto Road during the early hours of 30 October 2024.
“Mogaila admitted that the vehicle he was driving “veered into oncoming traffic and collided with another vehicle” occupied by a woman and her two children. The crash claimed the life of nine-year-old Gomolemo Mavimbela, while her mother and 13-year-old brother sustained serious injuries.
“Mohlatlole further said Mogaila fled the scene after the collision but later “handed himself over to law enforcement authorities on the same day”. He added that during the investigation, the police discovered alcohol bottles and drugs inside the vehicle.
“The court subsequently convicted Mogaila on all three charges following his guilty plea. Mogaila was a professional footballer with Sekhukhune United, competing in South Africa’s top-flight Betway Premiership.
“The club announced his departure in July 2026, as part of its squad changes ahead of the new season, leaving him a free agent. The matter has been postponed to 17 November 2026, for sentencing. The guilty plea and conviction not only hold the accused accountable for his unlawful conduct but also spare the victims and their family the emotional burden of a lengthy trial,” said Mohlatlole.
He said the prosecution authority described the conviction as “an important step towards justice for the deceased child and her family”.
