MAFIKENG, NORTH WEST – The Mafikeng High Court convicted four men on Friday for the brutal murder of two police officers in 2021. The verdict has brought a sense of relief to the community as authorities prepare for sentencing.

Court Finds Four Guilty of Multiple Crimes

The court found Benjamin Kerneels Jacobs, 45, Gaorekwe Jeremiah Mongale, 28, Rapula George Keaikitse, 27, and Mathews Modukanele, 23, guilty of multiple charges. These included stock theft, robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnapping, murder, and unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that the case also involved charges of malicious damage to property and defeating the ends of justice.

Police Officers Killed After Traffic Stop

The case dates back to July 26, 2021, when Const. Simon Ntsekeletsa, 50, and Sgt. Mojalefa Molete, 42, stopped a vehicle carrying 18 goats. The officers, stationed at Mareetsane Police Station, questioned the occupants about a permit for transporting the livestock.

Since the suspects failed to produce valid documents, the officers instructed them to follow the police van to the station. However, during the journey, the suspects’ vehicle broke down.

Attack on Officers Leads to Tragic Deaths

The suspects asked the officers for assistance, which led one officer to retrieve a tow rope. At that moment, the attackers ambushed them, striking them with hammers and restraining them with a rope. They then forced both officers into the back of the police van.

Authorities later found the burnt police vehicle at Mosita Wildlife Farm near Vryburg. Inside, they discovered two bodies burnt beyond recognition. Investigators confirmed that the vehicle belonged to the officers.

Arrests and Key Testimony

Police tracked the suspects to a house in Logageng, where they recovered a Z88 pistol with nine rounds hidden under a mattress. A fifth suspect, only 16 at the time, turned state witness and provided critical testimony. Due to his cooperation, prosecutors withdrew the charges against him.

Sentencing Set for March 7

Despite overwhelming evidence, all four accused pleaded not guilty. The court postponed the case until March 7 for sentencing, and the convicted men remain in custody.

The conviction marks a significant step toward justice for the slain officers and their families. Authorities hope the sentencing will serve as a strong deterrent against attacks on law enforcement.

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