| 2024/10/24 |
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Media Statement BETHLEHEM – The Free State High Court handed down seven life sentences plus 35 years’ to the accused person, Kamohelo Motankisi (35), of Tlholong near Kestell for the heinous crimes of killing seven people at Lismore Farm district Kestell during July 2022. On 24 October 2024 on the matter that was heard at Bethlehem Magistrate Court, Judge Celest Reinders, Prosecutor Antonnette Ferreira and Detective Captain Alfons Kokonyana of the Provincial Murder and Robbery, Phuthaditjhaba Unit successfully convicted Kamohelo Motankisi through the assistance of internal units such as Bethlehem Crime Intelligence and K9 Unit who cracked the case by effecting arrests of both accused on 15 July 2022. The two placed their photos on social media in possession of a firearm stolen on the farm after the commission of the horrific crime. They further went to another farm where they broke entry and stole some items. One of the two accused, Tseko Lerato Selepe, was sentenced to effective 30 years of direct imprisonment on 13 March 2024 by the same court. The victims were six women and one male: Paulinah Mothoduwa Moloi (37), Nontwasefani Loti Smith (54), Nokufa Portia Mofokeng (31), Lerato Julie Moloi (34), Nomasonto Christinah Zulu (57), Nomasonto Maduna (44), and Rhudie Binta (18). Some of the above sustained multiple stab and gunshot wounds. Two women were sexually assaulted during the commission of the senseless killings. The judge thanked all the role players from police ballistics and 19 witnesses, including the police who were directly and indirectly involved in the case. The accused faced 12 charges: housebreaking with intent to rob and robbery under aggravating circumstances, seven life sentences, two sexual offenses, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and housebreaking with intent to steal and theft. “I would like to thank the entire investigation team, especially Detective Captain Alfons Kokonyana, whose tireless efforts have been instrumental in bringing justice to the victims and their families.,” said the Provincial Commissioner of the police in the Free State, Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane. Finally, the accused, Kamohelo Motankisi, took a stand and apologised before the court to all members of the families he wronged after his sentence.
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