By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – Five accused in the brutal murder of 20-year-old Celumuzi Hlatswayo will wait until 25 February 2026 to learn whether they will be granted bail.
Hlatswayo’s burnt, half-decomposed body was found in a donga on a farm along the Clarens route, six days after he was reported missing.
Malefetsane Mokoena, Oupa Mofokeng, Mahlape Mokoena, Kgalemang Masaballa and Lomile Hlolloane appeared briefly in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 19 February, expecting a ruling on their bail applications. The matter was postponed after a late start to court proceedings and a lengthy roll.
All five face charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder. The State indicated that additional charges may follow and is opposing bail.
During earlier proceedings, the court heard that Hlatswayo was allegedly lured to a house in Matsikeng by his girlfriend — also an accused — under the pretext that she and her child had been evicted and needed help.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Mapitori Matale testified that the State has a strong case and that releasing the accused would not be in the interests of justice. She described Mokoena as the alleged mastermind and told the court he had made a confession.
Matale said preliminary investigations revealed that Mokoena allegedly instructed two co-accused to seize Hlatswayo, force him into a vehicle and stab him. The two denied stabbing the victim but admitted forcing him into the car.
The court also heard that the deceased’s girlfriend allegedly acted on instructions from Mokoena to summon Hlatswayo. Mokoena is reportedly her uncle and the spouse of accused five, Hlolloane, a teacher whose vehicle was allegedly used in the crime.
Mokoena told the court he intends to plead guilty. Some co-accused indicated they would plead not guilty but are willing to turn State witnesses.
Matale further testified that Mokoena had previous convictions for assault and theft, contradicting his affidavit that he had no prior record.The court will deliver its bail decision on 25 February.
