The funeral service will follow two days later in the Simson Sefuthi Hall in N-Section Botshabelo on Friday (14/3).

Pesa Pheko’s DNA was recently confirmed from a burnt body of an unknown male discovered in July near the town of Dealesville. DNA extracted from the body matched a family member of Pheko’s.

“In light of one of our own’s transitioning journey, Pacofs, together with the Pheko family, would like to take a moment to celebrate the life of our brother, father, and fellow creative,” said Pacofs’s Daylene Oersen. “It is befitting that we gather together as the creative industry to share some of our favourite memories, reflect on amazing experiences, and hear impactful stories of Pesa.”

A memorial service will be held at Pacofs on Wednesday (12/3) from 10:00 to 16:00. Attendees are urged to wear white, she said.

Nombulelo Pheko (34) and Motlatsi Ramosoeu (39), who were previously charged with conspiracy to commit murder, will appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 25 March, after they were denied bail during their previous court appearance.

The funeral service will be in the Simson Sefuthi Hall in N-Section Botshabelo on Friday, 14 March. Photo: Supplied

Nombulelo and Ramosoeu will now face charges of murder after DNA results confirmed his death. “Due to the condition of the remains, DNA was extracted and sent for analysis,” said Free State police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli.

“The investigating team received confirmation that the DNA matched a family member of Pheko’s.”

Pheko was reported missing by his family on 10 July. He was last seen leaving his home in L-Section Botshabelo to travel to Bloemfontein by public transport for a hospital appointment.

Pheko was wearing a long green bomber jacket, black jeans, black sneakers, and a grey beanie at the time. His family believed that Nombulelo knew where her husband was.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh