17 Sep 2015

Seven men charged with the murder of Thuso Mulalazi were arraigned before Francistown magistrate, Mr Sijabuliso Siziba on Tuesday September 15.

The seven men are Nthoiwa Maxala (33), Tshoganetso Macala (22), Thabani Manala (26), Tsaone Sedimo (28), Unaludo Madamba (27), Obonetse Sedimo (28) and Macpherson Gaogakwe (49).

They alleged murder occurred at Somerset East location on September 13 and during the arraignment, the prosecution pleaded with the court to remand the accused persons in custody as investigations of the matter were still at an initial stage.  

In the evidence led by the investigating officer, Detective Assistant Superintendent (ASP) Lynn Agang, the court learnt that investigations had just commenced meaning that statements had not been collected from the witnesses.
Therefore the was a possibility of interference from the accused persons.  

The police officer said some exhibits that included the cartridge from the fire arm that was allegedly used during the murder were also yet to be recovered.
ASP Agang also told the court that one of the accused persons was of foreign origin, therefore there was a possibility that he could flee the country.  

The prosecutor, Inspector Goitsemang Ramatatome pleaded with the court to take into account the seriousness of the charge, and that should the accused be released on bail they were likely to be exposed to harm from the aggrieved family.

Magistrate Siziba denied the accused persons bail although he noted that they were suspects who had the right to liberty and that they were presumed innocent until proven guilty. He set September 29 as another mention date. Ends