02 Nov 2023

Molepolole Chief Magistrate, Gaseitsewe Tonoki has denied bail to Andy Sematlho, who is facing a single count of murder.

Sematlho is alleged to have killed his girlfriend, Ms Sedilame Sikalefe. Appearing before court November 2, the accused pleaded with the court to release him on bail since he was the only surviving parent of a two-year-old child he had with the deceased, as well as being the breadwinner in his household.

He pointed out that his mother, who was taking care of the child, was unemployed.

Sergeant Pako Kgosimolao of the Botswana Police told the court that the post-mortem report had not yet been completed and that the accused was yet to be taken for a psychiatric evaluation.

He stated that in that light, investigation into Sikalefe’s murder was still ongoing.  

Chief Magistrate Tonoki ruled that since the accused was facing a serious charge, which was still under police investigation, he would remain remanded in custody.

He will appear again on November 20. ENDS