By Teboho Moloi
QWAQWA – The murder case against Tshepang “Hammer killer” Mapiloko (36) has suffered another delay after the State moved for his referral for mental observation.The case is postponed to 9 March 2026 for the mental observation report.
This after Mapiloko appeared briefly in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 27 February, where the State revealed that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has instructed that he be assessed to determine his fitness to stand trial.
A report is expected by 5 March 2026.
The accused faces a Schedule 6 murder charge for the killing of his uncle, Frank Letlala (75). He has been in custody since his arrest on 9 October 2025 after bail was denied.
Prosecutors told the court the seriousness of the matter warrants transfer to the High Court. During earlier bail proceedings, the court ruled that no exceptional circumstances existed to justify Mapiloko’s release.
Investigating officer Sgt Teboho Rasenyalo previously testified that relatives of the accused expressed fear of him.
The court has also received Mapiloko’s sworn affidavit as Exhibit A, and a jointly signed petition by relatives and community members opposing his release as Exhibit B.
