Central SA
Two Men remanded in custody for Dealesville teacher’s murder─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 09:05 Wed, 09 Oct 2024
“He was the hope of the school, he was the hope of the community and now to replace such a teacher particularly when learners are going for final examinations is just a blow.”
Two men accused of murdering a school teacher from Dealesville, have been remanded in custody following the postponement of their case.
The accused, Itumeleng Mokoena and Seema Morake appeared briefly at the Dealesville Magistrate’s Court, where their case was postponed to Tuesday (15/10) for further bail information.
Mosiwa Tshabagae (41) was found dead inside his home on the school premises late last month. His body was discovered by three women who had been trying to reach him and, upon receiving no response, decided to check on him.
His body was found covered in a blanket and lying in a pool of blood. Paramedics declared him dead at the scene.
Mokoena was arrested shortly after allegedly confessing to the crime, which led to the arrest of Morake. Investigations are ongoing, with indications that more arrests may follow.
Outside the court, residents of Dealesville gathered in protest, marching with placards and demanding justice for the slain teacher.
Residents gathered outside Dealesville magistrate court. Photo: Screenshot
The crowd called for the accused to be denied bail. Among those mourning Tshabagae’s death was retired principal Dr. Teboho Sebakamotse, who expressed the community’s grief.
Speaking to SABC News crew, he noted that the loss was particularly devastating as it occurred while matric students were preparing for their final exams.
Retired principal Dr. Teboho Sebakamotse reacting to death of slained teacher. Photo: Screenshot
“We have lost a dedicated teacher, a young teacher who was still going to offer a lot, a community has lost, the school has lost. This is the only school in this area.
“He was the hope of the school, he was the hope of the community and now to replace such a teacher particularly when learners are going for final examinations is just a blow. Something had to be done, some interventions had to be done through the grace of god but we hope for the best.
“That maybe learners will dedicate by passing and doing well in their exams,” he said.
The teacher’s home was reportedly ransacked, with several personal items, including a laptop, cell phones, bank cards, keys, and clothing, stolen. Mokoena was found wearing Tshabagae’s stolen clothes at the time of his arrest.
