Mohale FM The case involving four police officers accused of murdering a man from Botha-Bothe and assaulting his brother in 2018 is scheduled to be heard today at the High Court Ts’ifa-li-Mali in Leribe.
The accused, Detective Sergeant Sebehela, Detective Rammoana, Constable Matsoso, and Constable Monyane, were stationed at Seboche, Botha-Bothe at the time of the incident. They face two charges: the murder of Mr. Sempe Molapo and the assault of his brother, Mr. Bosiu Molapo.
The victims’ father, Mr. Sera Molapo, had also alleged that he was assaulted by the police on the same day. However, he has since passed away, and his case has been withdrawn. His death is not believed to be linked to the alleged assault.
According to reports, Sempe Molapo, a livestock herder, died during the attack, while his brother and father sustained serious injuries.
Last week, the accused officers, through their legal representative, sought to have the case dismissed. They argued that the victims had been assaulted by members of the community rather than by the police. However, Judge Ts’ooana Lesaoana rejected the application, allowing the case to proceed.
The prosecution has indicated that witnesses, including community members who allegedly observed the incident, are expected to testify in court. It is further alleged that members of the community later joined in the assault under the belief that the deceased had committed a sexual offence, claims reportedly made by the police but said to be false and motivated by other undisclosed reasons.
