Ex-police officer among three charged in brutal Limpopo kidnapping-murder case

What began as a missing persons investigation in 2023 has culminated in three suspects, including a former police officer, facing murder charges after the discovery of a victim buried in a shallow grave.

The trio's court appearance follows the arrest of Oupa Baker Lebogo, 48, on Friday, October 25, after he had eluded law enforcement.

His arrest came as part of a meticulously coordinated operation by the Provincial Tracking Team and the Murder and Robbery Unit in Moletji Mabokelele.

“The team received information on the wanted suspect and followed up on the information and managed to arrest the suspect, Lebogo, who was in his hideout house,” said police spokesperson, Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.

These events are tied to the case of Steven Mathebula, a 55-year-old man who was kidnapped and murdered on June 6, 2023.

Following the initial opening of a missing persons report, the investigation expanded into a murder enquiry, leading to the charges against the suspects who are now in custody.

It was revealed that Mathebula's body was found in a shallow grave.

Two additional suspects, Victor Mashakeng, 49, and former police Sergeant Herbet Modiba, 46, have opted to abandon their application for bail in the Seshego District Court.

Their case was postponed to December 10, as police continue to gather detailed evidence.

“Lebogo's case was postponed until November 15 for profiling and bail application,” said Ledwaba.

Limpopo police commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe commended both the investigative efforts and the community's role in these breakthroughs.

“We appreciate the partnership between the police and communities, resulting in the breakthrough in these complex cases,” she said.

Authorities are still actively searching for a fourth suspect related to the kidnapping and murder case, identified as Percy Lebogo, as investigations continue.

IOL

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 10:24:55 GMTWendy Dondolo

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