Teen appears in Mankweng court over businessman Tebogo Mothapo’s murder
A 19-year-old woman, Kagontle Moshibudi Sina Bopape, appeared in the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court today, Monday in connection with the December 2025 murder of businessman Tebogo Mothapo.
Bopape faces six charges, including conspiracy to commit robbery, conspiracy to commit murder, murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, and robbery with aggravating circumstances. The matter was postponed to 1 September 2026 for legal aid.
Her co-accused, Osama Asad (27), a naturalised South African of Pakistani origin, also appeared. His case was postponed for the State to address his bail application.
Mothapo, 43, was attacked and shot dead outside his home in Mankweng Zone 1 on the night of 16 December 2025. His cellphone was taken during the incident. Police initially said the motive was unknown and transferred the docket to the provincial office.
Asad was arrested on 20 July 2026 at Ga-Mothapo, Tjatjaneng, after officers found him in possession of the deceased’s phone. He first appeared in the same court on 22 July on charges including murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and possession of stolen property.
Bopape was arrested on Sunday, 30 August, in Mankweng Zone One during an intelligence-driven operation involving the Provincial Investigation Unit, Provincial Tracking Team, Capricorn Tracing Team, and private partner Tshimollo Security and Investigations. Limpopo Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Jan Scheepers welcomed the arrest and praised investigators for their persistence.
Police have said more arrests may follow. Both accused remain in custody.