By BAKANG MOKOTO
11 November 2026 – Lesotho national was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment by the Koster Regional Court for murder. On 26 April 2025, the deceased visited the accused, Tshepo Nkhope’s residence in search of his girlfriend, who was friends with the accused’s girlfriend.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Lindiwe Mabasa said upon arrival, the deceased knocked on the door, which was opened by the accused. Mabasa said when the deceased enquired about his girlfriend, the accused dragged him into the house, covered him with a Basotho blanket, tied him up with a belt and stabbed him.
“Although the deceased managed to escape from the house, he later succumbed to his injuries at his own residence. The accused was subsequently arrested and pleaded not guilty to the charge of murder. During the trial, the state was initially represented by prosecutor Sangweni Zimema, who presented the evidence of a single witness.
“The accused was ultimately convicted of murder. During sentencing proceedings, the state prosecutor Patrick Chauke, highlighted the prevalence of murder cases in Koster and the devastating impact of violent crime on the families of victims,” she said.
Mabasa further said Chauke urged the court to impose a sentence that would send a strong message to prospective offenders that violence would not be tolerated and that perpetrators would face the full might of the law. She added that the state further submitted that the accused had shown no remorse throughout the proceedings, having maintained his innocence.
“The court agreed with the state’s submissions and sentenced Nkhope to 12 years imprisonment. He was also declared unfit to possess a firearm,” said Mabasa.
Meanwhile, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in North West, Dr Rachel Makhari, welcomed the sentence and urged members of the public to refrain from resorting to violence when resolving disputes. Makhari said the NPA reiterates that the right to life is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution.
“It remains committed to prosecuting those who unlawfully deprive others of this basic right, without fear, favour or prejudice, and ensuring that justice is served for victims and their families,” she said.
