The Minister of Police, Nathi Mthethwa today congratulated the Mahikeng police for the good detective work which resulted in the life sentences of the murderers of Ms Ivy Kebitsamang Molefe, whose body was found in a decomposed state earlier last year.

The judgment was handed yesterday at the Mahikeng High Court, North West.  The first accused, Ms Penny Tatushe was ordered to serve 22 years effectively in prison term.  The three other accused, namely Mr Klaas Molefe (the late Mrs Ivy Molefe’s husband), Ms Elizabeth Mosweu (concubine of Mr Klaas Molefe) and the hitman, Mr Thabo Thamaga all received life imprisonments.

After the gruesome discovery of the deceased’s body, Minister Mthethwa accompanied by the North West Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Zukiswa Mbombo visited the Molefe family in Mahikeng, to offer condolences but also assure them that the police will investigate the case and ensure the perpetrators face the full might of the law.

“I want to commend the contribution of the police, through good investigative work because on most instances, police are often blamed by some members of the public when criminals walk free or receive lighter sentences.  This sentence augurs very well for the police because it shows that through dedication and relentless pursuit of the case, resulted in these life sentences.  We congratulate and urge them to continue to do more,” stated the Minister.

It was alleged that the late Ms Molefe went to work as usual on the 14th March 2012 and never returned home that day.  Subsequent to that, the following day her husband Mr. Klaas Molefe reported her missing at Mmabatho Police Station.

The police, assisted by the local community began with a search.  Awkwardly, the husband of the deceased never participated in any of the searches including prayer sessions which were organized by the community members.  He further accused police of not doing enough to find her missing wife.

Despite these false accusations, police continued with their investigation.  Eventually, the investigation pointed out that the very same husband who falsely accused police of incompetence was actually an accomplice and mastermind to the planned murder of the deceased, which was carried out on the 14th of March 2012.  All four accused were eventually traced, arrested and charged with kidnapping, murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances.

“We recognize that to win the war against crime it is essential that government join hands with communities in forming concrete partnerships, strengthened by a common goal of a safe country.  We therefore urge members of society to become part of our crusade aimed at protecting particularly women, children and the elderly against heartless criminals,” concluded the Minister.

For enquiries, please contact:

Zweli Mnisi, Spokesperson to the Minister of Police 082 045 4024
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