By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – The state in the brutal hammer and controversial murder of Frank Letlala (75) from Phuthaditjhaba against Tshepang Mapiloko (36) have asked the court for further week-long postponement before hearing the bail application for murder accused Tshepang.
Tshepang appeared briefly on Thursday 16 October following his first appearance since his arrest on Wednesday 08 October with expectation to make a formal bail application before the court.
However in twist of events the court through the state prosecutor, submitted to court that the investigating officer is yet to complete his investigation and seek more time before hearing the application.
The state however had submitted that it intends to oppose the release on bail of the accused.
The investigating officer Sergeant Teboho Rasenyalo is yet to get results on investigations that whether Tshepang has pending criminal matters or not.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Mmako Mophiring confirmed that Tshepang was arrested on the crime scene after the victim was found lying lifeless on the floor in a pool of blood, with a blood-stained hammer next to his body.
Mophiring explained that their members were called to the scene at Phuthaditjhaba at about 12:45 following a discovery by a neighbour who heard a noise coming from the deceased’s house. He further alleged that when he went to investigate, he discovered the elderly man lying on the floor, bleeding profusely, and immediately summoned emergency responders and the police to the scene.
“The motive behind the murder is not yet known and he is facing a charge of murder, “said Mophiring.
Family spokesperson Morwesi Posholi expressed relief on behalf of the family to keep Tshepang in custody following the postponement.
Posholi said the family was scared for members safety especially as they will be gathered this weekend for the funeral service of their uncle.
“We wish he be sentenced harshly and spend the rest of his life in jail.it is very sad because he is part of our family but also took life of our uncle, it’s sad,” said Posholi.
The Guard Newspaper learnt that Tshepang only came to stay with the deceased about four years ago and has been living in Cape Town.
“We really do not have or know his background history honestly, but we welcome efforts by police and look forward to results on whether he has pending cases or not, “she said.
The matter has been further postponed to 23 October 2025, for formal bail application
