Barelathile is accused of murdering Janice James on September 19 in Block 2, Francistown, following a dispute between the two and was arrested on the day of the incident. 

During her initial arraignment, she was remanded in custody as the prosecution argued that the case was still in its early stages and investigations were ongoing.

Appearing for a status mention, the prosecution updated the court that investigators had gathered statements from several witnesses. 

The state, citing heightened tensions, requested for further remand, arguing that the deceased’s grieving family and relatives were emotional and might react negatively if bail were granted.

However, Chief Magistrate Daniel Nkau rejected the request, noting that the prosecution failed to provide satisfactory grounds for continued detention.

The court granted bail on the condition that Barelathile bound herself with P5,000 and provided two sureties who each bound themselves with P5,000. 

Additional conditions stipulate that she must not interfere with state witnesses, not commit any criminal offenses while on bail and must attend all court sessions whenever required.

Chief Magistrate Nkau warned that any violation of bail conditions would lead to immediate revocation of bail and return to custody.

Given the opportunity to address the court, Barelathile apologised to both the deceased’s family and her own.

She is scheduled to appear again on November 26. ENDS