By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – The Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court has refused bail for murder accused Tshepang Mapiloko (36), who is charged with the brutal killing of his uncle, 75-year-old Frank Lelala.
Mapiloko’s bail ruling was delivered on Wednesday, 5 November.
He was arrested on 8 October 2025 after Lelala was found dead in his home. Police were alerted by neighbours. Mapiloko later applied for bail on 29 October.
In court, Mapiloko argued that he should be released because he has no previous convictions, no pending cases, a fixed address in Phuthaditjhaba, and runs a small mechanic business. He also claimed that vehicles at his workshop and his house are not safeguarded while he remains in custody.
Magistrate’s Court, however, found these submissions insufficient to constitute exceptional circumstances that would justify bail.
Investigating officer Sergeant Teboho Rasenyalo strongly opposed bail, telling the court that family members and relatives of the accused approached him expressing fear for their lives. He said they fear that if Mapiloko is released, he might harm them.
Rasenyalo further told the court that the accused knows the witnesses and could intimidate or harm them.
“Community members are also against his release. They submitted a petition jointly signed by family members and residents calling for him to remain in custody,” said Rasenyalo.
It is alleged Lelala was found lying on the floor in a pool of blood. His head appeared to have been hit with a hammer, which was found at the scene. The walls were also splattered with blood.Police say Mapiloko was found inside the house wearing clothes allegedly stained with blood, and that he appeared to be attempting to wash them.
Although Mapiloko has no previous convictions, the court heard that he previously had an assault GBH case registered in the Western Cape, but it was later withdrawn.
The State told the court that investigations are 98% complete, with only the post-mortem report and scene photo album outstanding.
Exhibits submitted include the accused’s sworn affidavit (Exhibit A) and the petition against his release (Exhibit B).
Family spokesperson Morwesi Posholi said the family was relieved that he will remain behind bars.
“We hope he receives a harsh sentence. It is sad, because he is our family member — but he also took our uncle’s life,” Posholi said.
The matter returns to court on 20 November.
