10 Oct 2022

Magistrate Jobbie Moilatshimo of Broadhurst Magistrate Court has on Monday ordered a psychiatrist  to give an up to date report on the progress of counselling a minor witness.

The prosecutor in the July 14, 2022 murder case of Barulaganye Aston of Mogampane Ward in Kopong, Ms Keletso Ookeditse told the court that a witness, who is a minor, alleged to have witnessed the murder and sexual assault of the deceased was undergoing counselling at Sabrana Psychiatric Clinic, therefore yet to record a statement.

Ms Ookeditse said the witness is scheduled to meet with the doctor again on October 19 for counselling.

Following the refusal to grant Leufty Gaolemogwe Kosie and Outlwile Aston bail pending finalisation of the investigations which included recording of statements from all potential witnesses, the defence attorneys have urged the prosecution to set timeline for wrapping up their investigations.

As such, the court has ordered the psychiatrist to update the court on the time that would be required to complete the counselling process to ensure that the witness was in a position to record a statement.

The quartet of Oageng Moagi Letsholo, Kosie, Aston and Kebaleboge Ntsebe are charged with the murder of Barulaganye Aston.

Meanwhile, the fourth accused person, Ntsebe told to the court that the police had reportedly conducted a search in her house without her consent. 

Ntsebe asked the court if it was lawful for law enforcement officers to enter and search her house in her absence.

To that, Ms Moilatshimo advised Ntsebe to seek legal advice in relation to her concern or raise the issue before the court that would try the matter. 

The case will mention on October 24 for status hearing. BOPA