Twists and turns in cop killer’s bail application… NPA comes out guns blazing as free state chief prosecutor steps in

By Mahlasinyane Motsoeneng

Qwa Qwa – Drama, delays, and surprises marked the highly anticipated bail hearing for a suspected cop killer at the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrate Court on Tuesday, 11 February 2025.Four accused—Pakiso Lethako (32), Kabelo Marasane (27), Thetha Piet Lakaje (53), and Mpho Richard Mosia (29)—face charges of house robbery, two counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit crime.

These charges follow the brutal killings of two non-commissioned police officials from the Namahadi Visible Police unit. Constable Sipho Mohapi and Constable Gedione Motloung were shot and killed while responding to a house robbery on 4 January.

Police Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane described the incident as a senseless act of violence that left both the SAPS and the Namahadi community in shock.

The accused will have to wait at least another 10 days before formally filing their bail applications. Three of the accused are represented by legal aid, while one has appointed a private legal representative.

The magistrate court, packed with relatives of the deceased, concerned community members, and supporters of the accused, heard that the legal representative for the third accused was unable to continue with the application due to an injury.

Although the private legal representative was not in attendance, The Guard reported that he had informed the prosecution of his condition.

Meanwhile, the state came out guns blazing by assigning Free State Chief Prosecutor Advocate Sello Mahloko to handle the case.

The brief court appearance resulted in an adjournment until 26 February, as the legal representative for the third accused was absent and the other legal representatives preferred to keep the applications united.

Advocate Mahloko stated that the state would definitely oppose bail.