The Polokwane High Court in Limpopo has sentenced traditional healer, Hlologelo Klaas Mogotlane (36) after he pleaded guilty to the brutal murder of Dr Malekutu Johannes Mehlape on 28 December 2023 at the deceased’s home in Mankweng Zone 1, outside Polokwane.
Mehlape was a Circuit Manager at the Limpopo Department of Education.
Limpopo National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Spokesperson Mashudu Malabi said that Mehlape’s death was orchestrated by his daughter Mologadi Magdeline Mehlape who has since been sentenced to life imprisonment.
“The murder follows claims made by traditional healer, Mogotlane who alleged that Mehlape was responsible for her mother’s death through the use of “muthi”.
“When attempts to retaliate using traditional means failed, Mehlape enlisted the help of various family members to hire a contract killer, agreeing to pay R200,000 for the murder,” she said.
She further said that on Monday, Mogotlane pleaded guilty and the court sentenced him to 20 years’ imprisonment for murder and 13 years’ imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances.
“He accepted his responsibility for his role in the offences to cause the death of Dr Mehlape. Three others accused, Tshepo Gabriel Ranoto (34), Mahlodi Melida Mathole (34) and Michael Sello Molongoane (42) appeared alongside Mogotlane,” she said.
The trial for these accused has been separated and postponed to 02-13 November 2026 in the Polokwane High Court.
The NPA welcomed the conviction and life sentence, viewing it as a clear affirmation of the justice system’s resolve to hold perpetrators of serious and violent crimes accountable.
It further said the outcome underscores the NPA’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and securing justice for victims and their families.