Moorosi Tsiane
TWO men from Roma are expected to learn their fate today after pleading guilty to the brutal murder of Molojoa Mabokoane, a killing believed to have been driven by revenge linked to an initiation school dispute.
Tšepo Tabola and Motsie Mochesane of Tloutle village appeared before Justice Mabatšoeneng Hlaele, who is set to deliver judgment on whether they will be convicted or acquitted for the killing that occurred on the morning of 24 February 2020.
The court heard this week that the accused allegedly attacked Mr Mabokoane with a knife and an axe, inflicting multiple fatal injuries. Evidence presented in court suggested the motive stemmed from an earlier incident in which Mr Mabokoane had allegedly shot Mochesane in the stomach during their time at an initiation school.
Crown Counsel, Advocate Masenate Sekoala, told the court that the prosecution relied on four witness statements, the suspected murder weapons, and a postmortem report.
According to the investigating officer, Detective Police Constable Motemekoane, Mr Mabokoane’s body was later discovered in nearby bushes with severe injuries, including multiple head wounds, a fractured skull and stab wounds to the abdomen.
One of the key witnesses, Teleko Mohanoe, recounted that he had been working in the fields with others, including the deceased, when the two accused approached them.
“At around 8:00 in the morning, I was in the fields with Khoeli Pholo, Elisang Chaka, Teboho Chaka, Makepe Makepe, Mahloko and Molojoa Mabokoane,” Mr Mohanoe said in a statement read into the court record.
He said the two men, initially concealing their faces with hats, claimed they were looking for work before asking to speak privately with Mr Mabokoane.
The three walked towards the nearby Ramashalane River, but about 10 minutes later the accused returned alone, allegedly claiming Mr Mabokoane had run away.
A search was then organised, leading to the discovery of Mr Mabokoane’s body in nearby bushes. Witnesses noted signs that he had been dragged, with a trail of blood leading to the scene.
The matter was reported to the Roma Police Post, and Mr Mabokoane was taken to St Joseph’s Hospital, where he was certified dead.
Additional witness statements corroborated Mr Mohanoe’s account, while the postmortem confirmed that Mr Mabokoane died from severe head injuries, including a fractured skull and extensive brain damage.
Following the presentation of evidence, the court instructed both the prosecution and defence to submit written closing arguments yesterday, with judgment expected today.
