21 Mar 2019

Former Extension Gunners left back, Obakeng ‘Dibanka’ Moupo, who passed away on March 11, will be laid to rest on Saturday in Digawana in the Southern District.

‘Banks’ or ‘Arbie,’ as he was affectionately called by supporters and friends, joined the Peleng giants in 1994 when they were still known as LCS Gunners.

Together with the likes of Naphtally ‘Scara’ Kebalepile, Itumeleng ‘Tumie’ Duiker and Morris ‘Pro’ Mauco, they helped Gunners clinch the Coca Cola Cup in 1994.

Moupo, who leaves behind one child, his parents and siblings, was also part of the national under 17 team in 1995.

He had been in and out of hospital since last year.

After retiring from  football, he continued playing for teams around Lobatse like Dipashasha and Top Star.

His uncle, Aobakwe Moilwa described his nephew as someone who loved being with people. He said Dibanka was always respectful and knew the difference between an elderly person and the young ones.

He further said Dibanka liked joking with others.

“We learned a lot from him as a family and his death has really affected us a lot. It is going to be difficult for us to accept that he is really gone. He was sick for a long time and God has finally given him rest from all the pains of this earth,” said Moilwa.

His younger sister, Mosadi Moupo, described Dibanka as a quiet person.

“He was not a talkative person and was sometimes difficult to understand. I understood him more than anyone else in the family because I made it easy for him to talk to me.

He listened to me and we took care of him when he was sick till the time he left us,” she said.

Thelma Mahloane, who was a close friend of the deceased, said they had known each other from their childhood.

“Dibanka was a friendly person who loved everyone and took care of everyone no matter what. It is going to be difficult to deal with his death and will never forget him,” she said.

Extension Gunners communications manager, Willoughby Kemoen said ‘Arbie’ was the ever smiling hero and that his left foot brought joy to thousands of Gunners supporters.

He said ‘Arbie’ helped to transform the team with his football skills.

“We remember the shots, and we are proud because you kept the faith and the fire burning,” said Kemoen. ENDS