By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – Murder accused Tshepang “Hammer Killer” Mapiloko (36) will have to wait two more weeks to learn whether his case will be transferred to the Free State High Court.
Mapiloko appeared briefly in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 20 November, where the State confirmed that investigations were complete, with only a photo album still to be added to the docket. He remains in custody after being denied bail earlier.
Mapiloko is charged with the gruesome murder of his uncle, 75-year old Frank Lelala, who was found brutally killed in his home on 8 October 2025. Police were summoned to the scene by concerned neighbours and discovered Lelala lying in a pool of blood, with severe head injuries believed to have been inflicted with a hammer found next to the body.
The prosecutor told the court he was still required to write to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for a decision on whether the matter should be escalated to the High Court.
“Given the seriousness of the crime, the case is more suitable for the High Court, but we await the DPP’s decision,” the State said.
The matter was postponed to 4 December 2025 for the DPP’s decision.During his bail application, the court found that Mapiloko had failed to demonstrate exceptional circumstances warranting his release.
Investigating officer Sergeant Teboho Rasenyalo strongly opposed bail, testifying that relatives had approached him expressing fear of the accused and concern that he might harm them if released.
Rasenyalo further raised fears for the safety of witnesses, whom he said the accused knows personally. Key exhibits already submitted include Mapiloko’s sworn affidavit (Exhibit A) and a community- and family-signed petition opposing his release (Exhibit B).
Family spokesperson Morwesi Posholi said the family wants justice to take its full course.
“We want him kept in custody and sentenced harshly. It is painful because he is part of our family, but he took the life of our uncle. It is truly sad,” Posholi said
