Mohale FM
The High Court has sharply criticised defence lawyers for arriving late to court in the murder trial of four police officers accused of killing their colleague, Police Constable Mokalekale Khetheng.
Justice Charles Hungwe, who is presiding over the murder trial, condemned the conduct after the court was forced to wait for the defence, with only the prosecutor present when proceedings were due to resume on Monday morning.
Justice Hungwe said the behaviour reflected poorly on the legal profession and contributed to public frustration with the courts.
He said the case has dragged on for years and that proceedings have rarely started on time, despite accused persons remaining in custody and growing public interest in seeing the matter finalised.
The judge said it was regrettable that lawyers, who should be assisting the court to conclude the case, were instead delaying it.
The trial is continuing today with the defence presenting its case. Retired Inspector Mothibeli Mofolo is currently on the witness stand.
The defence began presenting its case after the court dismissed an application for discharge brought under Section 175(3) of the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act.
Those charged include Retired Inspector Mothibeli Mofolo, Retired Superintendent Thabo Tšukulu, Senior Inspector Mabitle Matona and Sub-Inspector Haleokoe Taasoana.
Former Police Commissioner Molahlehi Letsoepa was also initially charged but fled the country. He later returned in 2025 and is currently out on bail. Charges against the current Minister of Labour and Employment, Tšeliso Mokhosi, were later withdrawn.
PC Khetheng is alleged to have died in March 2016 following his arrest by Hlotse police. The defence maintains that he later disappeared while on his way to meet senior officers.
