Picture: Three of the accused persons, Bakang and his brother, Phenyo Katong and Katlego Mosimege
By OBAKENG MAJE
The alleged key witness in a murder case against four accused persons, the convicted rapist, Bakang Katong (32), Thabang Lenyai (23) and Katlego Mosimege (31), and Phenyo Katong (34) found dead at Chris Hani/Baragwanath Academic Hospital in Soweto yesterday. It is alleged that, Setshwantsho Tlhomelang, who has been missing for months was found dead at the hospital and it was clear what he was admitted for.
It is alleged that Tlhomelang used a different surname at the hospital, but the hospital managed to trace his family through a physical address that was factual.
According to allegations, Katong offered Tlhomelang and Lenyai R50 000 each to take a ‘fall’ on a murder case, however, Tlhomelang refused. Instead, he allegedly turned a state witness and was expected to give evidence during a trial in October 2023.
Bakang, who is currently serving eight years in prison for rape, his brother Phenyo Katong, Thabang Lenyai and Katlego Mosimege were arrested more than a year ago for allegedly killing Thabiso Mothibedi (35) in cold blood.
They accused Mothibedi of stealing R20 000 cash and cigarettes worth R600 from Katong’s house in Manthe village, near Taung.
The North West police spokesperson, Capt Sam Tselanyane said the preliminary investigation revealed that on 29 April 2022, the deceased was at Longaneng village in Taung, when the accused fetched and ferried him back to Manthe village.
“Upon arrival, the deceased was allegedly chained to a generator and assaulted. After the assault, the victim was reportedly transported to a local clinic by the accused, however, he was declared dead upon arrival. The accused were arrested and charged with murder,” Tselanyane said.
On 1 May 2022, the community members were up in arms and torched three houses and a bakkie belonging to Katong’s family.
It is alleged that the state is set to call seven witnesses and Tlhomelang was one of them. The defense lawyer is expected to call four witnesses. There were also allegations that the accused persons intended to plead guilty.
However, it is yet unknown if that is still their intention. The case has been postponed to 2 October 2023.
The Guardian 