Court Refuses Bail for Man Accused of Killing Two Mamelodi Cousins in Tragic Tavern Shooting
The grief of a shattered family and the anger of a traumatised community took centre stage in court as a man accused of murdering two young cousins in Mamelodi was denied bail.
The Mamelodi Magistrates’ Court in Pretoria has ruled that 38-year-old Tebogo Mnisi, of Mamelodi East Extension 17, must remain behind bars while awaiting trial on charges linked to the deaths of two women and the attempted murder of a third victim.
Mnisi faces two counts of premeditated murder, attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and possession of unlawful ammunition.
Young Lives Cut Short in Alleged Shooting
According to National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana, the charges stem from a deadly incident that allegedly unfolded during the early hours of 26 October 2025.
The State alleges that Mnisi shot and killed his girlfriend, 22-year-old Tshiyamo Sweetness Moramaga, and her cousin, 21-year-old Boleseng Mirandah Moramaga.
A third victim, 27-year-old Desmond Semang, allegedly survived after Mnisi attempted to kill him during the same incident.
The three were reportedly together at Small Konka Tavern in Mamelodi East on the night of the shooting.
The killings sent shockwaves through the local community, with residents left reeling over the loss of two young women whose lives were cut short in a burst of violence.
Arrest Followed Intensive Police Investigation
Police investigations led to Mnisi’s arrest on 27 October 2025.
According to the NPA, officers tracked him down at a garage on Solomon Mahlangu Drive, a day after the alleged murders.
His arrest marked the beginning of a legal battle that culminated in a closely watched bail application.
State Opposed Release on R2,000 Bail
During the proceedings, Mnisi’s legal representative argued that he should be released on bail of R2,000.
The defence told the court that Mnisi is the sole breadwinner for his three children and his mother. It was further argued that his business has suffered financially during his time in custody and that he voluntarily handed himself over to authorities.
However, State Prosecutor Advocate Tsheko Mphake strongly opposed the application.
The prosecution argued that the accused faces extremely serious charges and poses a danger to himself. The State told the court that Mnisi allegedly attempted to take his own life after the incident.
Concerns Over Witness Intimidation and Community Anger
The State also raised concerns about the safety of the surviving witness.
According to the prosecution, Mnisi knows the witness personally and could potentially interfere with evidence or intimidate witnesses if released.
Advocate Mphake further warned that granting bail could inflame tensions within the community.
The court heard that residents had previously taken matters into their own hands by allegedly burning down the accused’s house following the incident.
Prosecutors argued that releasing Mnisi could trigger further unrest and undermine public confidence in the justice system.
The State also expressed concern that the accused could evade trial, noting allegations that he fled to Limpopo after the shooting before his eventual arrest.
Magistrate Sides with the State
In refusing bail, the magistrate agreed with key aspects of the prosecution’s argument.
The court found that the charges against Mnisi are serious and that there is a risk of interference with witnesses should he be released.
The magistrate also noted that the accused failed to provide sufficient proof regarding his business interests and his claim of being the sole breadwinner for his family.
Importantly, the court concluded that granting bail under the circumstances could damage society’s confidence in the criminal justice system.
As a result, Mnisi’s application was dismissed and he will remain in custody.
Case Postponed Pending Ballistic Report
The investigation into the fatal shooting continues.
The matter has been postponed until 20 July 2026, when the court is expected to receive the outcome of a ballistic report that could play a crucial role in the prosecution’s case.
For now, the families of Tshiyamo Sweetness Moramaga and Boleseng Mirandah Moramaga continue to wait for answers, while the accused remains behind bars as one of Mamelodi’s most disturbing murder cases moves closer to trial.
