By Jonk wa Mashamba
news@alexreporter.co.za
The Itsoseng Regional Court has yesterday deferred the case against the four men and one minor accused of killing two police officers in Mareetsane to 18 February 2022 for bail judgement.
In opposing bail, the state put the investigating officer on the stand to persuade the court with reasons as to why the accused should not be granted bail.
The accused legal representatives also concluded their cross-examination of the investigating officer.
All five accused were in attendance. The 16-year-old minor was granted bail of R1000 in October 2021 and the state did not oppose it, and he was left under the care of a guardian.
According to a police report, the two deceased officers attended a stock theft incident in Mareestane, however, the pair failed to return to the station and were declared missing.
A search operation was subsequently conducted.
Henry Mamothame, regional
NPA Spokesperson, said their burnt remains were later discovered at the back of their burnt state vehicle on 27 July 2021 in Ganyesa.
“Police investigations are nearing completion as the state is only awaiting DNA test results,” Mamothane.
Benjamin Jacobs (42), Jeremiah Mongale (26), Rapulana Keikantse (25), Matthews Modukane (20) and a 16-year-old boy are facing charges of murder, malicious damage to property, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of ammunition, possession of a semiautomatic firearm, kidnapping, possession of ammunition with intent to commit an offence and defeating the ends of justice.
“Upon arrest, police discovered the deceased firearm, two cellphones as well as SIM cards that were destroyed and thrown in a pit toilet at the home of one of the accused.
“They are charged for the murder of Constable Simon Ngakaemang Ntsekeletsa (50) and Sergeant Mojalefa Horatius Molete (42).
“The four accused will remain in police custody until the next court appearance, while the minor will remain under the care of a guardian,”Mamothame said.
