Qacha’s Nek, Feb. 20 — Despite pleas from Tebellong residents against their release, the High Court has granted bail to the suspects in the murder of 21-year-old Bohlokoa Mphephe.
Ntsane Mahabe, Motsamai Mosuhli, Lehlohonolo Moeletsi, Sekoala Mahlo, and Lithatong Kolisang were released on the condition that they pay M2,000, attend all court remands, stand trial to finality, and avoid interfering with Crown witnesses.
The decision has left the community shaken, with family members expressing fear and disappointment. Mphephe’s grandmother, ’Maphello Mphephe, described the release as reopening a wound she was trying to heal.
“At least I would understand if they were released after serving their sentence. Now it’s like salt was added on an open wound. I am very hurt,” she said, adding that Motsamai is a flight risk.
She recalled threats he allegedly made, saying, “Motsamai killed my grandson and he told me through someone he sent here. This is heartbreaking. I struggle to sleep and keep wondering what his next move will be.”
Mphephe’s uncle, Marooa Khutlang, said the suspects’ swift release has instilled fear in the family and the wider community. “We wished they stayed in custody until sentenced. The public now lives in fear. Death threats were already posed, and we don’t know what to expect now that he is out,” he said, noting that the threats have been reported to the police.
Ha Phatela Chief Maama Phatela acknowledged the community’s anger but advised against appealing the bail decision. “The family wanted to appeal, but I spoke against it, saying it would create more disputes than solutions. We haven’t seen them, but we’ve heard they were released. This has left the public dissatisfied and the family struggling,” he said. He added that while everyone has a right to bail, the case is still before the courts and the suspects should be left for the court to deal with them.
The release follows a public outcry in late January, when grieving villagers marched to the Qacha’s Nek Magistrate Court seeking updates on the case. Mphephe was shot and killed on January 8 at Tebellong, Ha Mahabe, sustaining three gunshot wounds to the back of the head, left eye, and upper left arm in what police described as an execution-style killing.
Demonstrators carried placards reading “Justice for Bohlokoa” and “No Bail for Motsamai.”
Community members remain fearful. Ha Phatela resident Mathuso Ramphalla (75) said, “We hate bail. The chances of Motsamai running away are high because he has money and can live anywhere. They must serve lengthy sentences because we are afraid of them.”
Ts’ele Khutlang echoed the call for life sentences, alleging rumors of further intended victims.
Investigations suggest the killing may be linked to disputes surrounding initiation schools. Mosuhli, a former initiation school owner, allegedly hired the suspects after the victim allegedly disrespected him. On the day of the murder, Mphephe was returning from an initiation gathering when one suspect tracked him while others carried out the attack. A companion escaped unharmed.
The suspects’ release has left the family and community questioning the balance between legal rights and public safety. While the legal process continues, fear and anger linger in Tebellong, highlighting the ongoing tension between justice, due process, and community security.
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