17 Oct 2023

Broadhurst Chief Magistrate, Gofaone Morweng has committed to the High Court a case in which Oteng Karabo Sephai is facing a murder charge.

Sephai allegedly stabbed Gape Mannathoko to death on March 22 last year during a party at Staywell Hotel in Mogoditshane. It is alleged that the deceased was stabbed while trying to assist a friend who was being harassed.

Magistrate Morweng committed the case after the prosecution indicated that committal documents were ready, and that the prosecution had consulted with the defence and both have reached a mutual agreement that all was in order to commit the matter.

The committal of the matter to the High Court meant that Sephai’s bail was revoked and he will now have to apply for a fresh bail at the High Court.

The court also ruled that he be refunded his bail condition deposit.

Sephai’s co-accused – Phenyo Kasale, Kealeboga Molefhi and Koketso Dipebe – remained on bail as they face a lesser charge of assault.

Meanwhile, Chief Magistrate Morweng on Tuesday granted bail to Ditiro Ngakane, who was appearing on a charge of housebreaking and stealing of property, crimes he allegedly committed in Mmopane.

Ngakane was granted bail because the investigating officer, who was expected to help the prosecution’s case by presenting the accused’s previous charges, did not appear in court.

The prosecutor, Sub Inspector Keaipela Seakolo, however, informed the court that investigation into the matter was complete, and all the required documents have been sent to the Directorate of Public Prosecution.

Ngakane will appear again for mention on November 14. ENDS