Raphefo Makgale (33), Kedibone Mataboge (37), Kerileng Molemi (47), Moses Pete (38), Refentse Matlhola (26), Bareng Sekgwatlheng (24), Edwin Njoro (40), Ngxacha Qhithi (46), and Keorapetse Letshedi (27) were released on R1000.00 bail each upon appearance in the Mankwe Magistrates’ Court in Mogwase today on charges of arson and malicious damage to property. They are expected to reappear at the same court on Thursday, 4 November 2021.
The accused were arrested in connection with an incident in which Chief Ramono Pilane Linchwe’s house was allegedly torched in the early hours of Sunday morning, 24 October 2021, in Moruleng near Mogwase outside Rustenburg. According to reports, a group of people who were traveling in minibusses arrived at the Chief’s residence and forced entry into the premises. As a result, the on-duty Security Officer ran to the other side of the premises. The group allegedly smashed the windows of a security vehicle that was parked outside the house. Furthermore, the group left the place after allegedly torching the Chief’s house which burnt together with a Toyota Hilux vehicle that was parked in the garage.
Following an intensive investigation and manhunt by a multi-disciplinary team comprising of the District Trio Task team, Mogwase Detectives, Crime Intelligence, K9, and Mounted Unit, the accused were arrested at different locations in and around Moruleng on Wednesday, 27 October 2021. During the arrest, Keorapetse Letshedi was found in possession of a suspected stolen laptop, laptop bag, cell phone, and two sim cards. Thus, he is facing an additional charge of possession of suspected stolen goods.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, lauded the team for their tireless efforts and good investigative work that led to the arrests. He cautioned that the police will not tolerate lawlessness and that those who disrespect the rule of law, will be dealt with effectively.
