The South African Police Service (SAPS)
By Mpho Moloi
The South African Police Service (SAPS) in the Free State province has successfully secured the extradition of two suspects wanted in connection with a double murder case that shocked the community in June 2024. Police spokesperson Sergeant Sinah Mpakane confirmed that the suspects, aged 32 and 30, were apprehended in Lesotho in July 2024 and have now been brought back to South Africa to face justice. The extradition underscores the growing cooperation between South African and Lesotho law enforcement authorities in combating cross-border crime.
The two suspects appeared in the Ladybrand Magistrate’s Court on 7 January 2025, where their case was postponed to 13 January 2025 to allow for the appointment of legal representation. This development represents the third successful extradition of suspects linked to serious crimes under the Free State police’s investigative efforts.
The June 2024 Double Murder Case
The extradited suspects, identified as Teboho Tsiu (32) and Lineo Walatsa (30), are alleged to have fled to Lesotho following the brutal murders of two men at the Maseru Bridge Port of Entry on 11 June 2024. The victims, Moholi Mohapi (31), also known as “Bohome,” and Rebone David Sephaka (40), also known as “Serurubele,” were gunned down near a long-distance taxi drop-off area.
According to police reports, an unknown number of assailants disembarked from a white Isuzu bakkie and opened fire on passengers exiting a taxi that had arrived from Johannesburg. The suspects then fled the scene in the same vehicle, leaving a trail of chaos and devastation.
Upon responding to the incident, police found the lifeless bodies of Mohapi and Sephaka lying in a pool of blood next to the taxi. The brazen attack sent shockwaves through the local community, drawing attention to the prevalence of cross-border crime and violent incidents at the Maseru Bridge.
Police Response and Initial Arrests
A swift response from the Ladybrand police led to the interception of the suspects’ vehicle on the R26 near Manyatseng. However, two suspects managed to escape into the surrounding darkness, leaving behind the driver, Seun Gert Moloi (30). A search of the vehicle uncovered a 9mm firearm, which was confiscated.
Moloi was arrested at the scene and later appeared in the Ladybrand Magistrate’s Court, where he was granted bail of R8,000. His arrest was the first significant breakthrough in the investigation, setting the stage for further efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects.
Tracing the Suspects to Lesotho
After months of intensive investigation, SAPS, in collaboration with Lesotho law enforcement agencies, tracked Teboho Tsiu and Lineo Walatsa to a hideout in Lesotho. Their arrest in July 2024 marked a turning point in the case, but their extradition to South Africa required navigating a complex legal process facilitated through international frameworks.
“The extradition of these suspects demonstrates the commitment of SAPS and our counterparts in Lesotho to ensuring that justice is served, no matter the jurisdiction,” said Sergeant Sinah Mpakane. “This successful collaboration is a testament to the growing cooperation between our two nations in addressing cross-border crime.”
The Extradition Process
The suspects were extradited to South Africa on 6 January 2025, arriving at the Maseru Bridge Port of Entry under tight security. This development came after months of negotiations and legal processes between South African and Lesotho authorities, highlighting the importance of international partnerships in combating crime.
The extradition process was conducted in accordance with established legal frameworks, ensuring that the suspects were brought back to South Africa in a manner that adhered to both countries’ laws. Their arrival marks a significant milestone in the investigation and reinforces the message that fugitives cannot evade justice by crossing borders.
Court Proceedings and Legal Representation
On 7 January 2025, Tsiu and Walatsa appeared in the Ladybrand Magistrate’s Court for the first time since their extradition. The court postponed the case to 13 January 2025 to allow the suspects to appoint legal representation. They are facing charges of double murder and attempted murder, which carry severe penalties under South African law.
Legal analysts have noted the significance of this case, as it highlights the ability of law enforcement agencies to collaborate effectively across borders. The successful extradition also sends a strong message to criminals that South Africa is committed to holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of the challenges involved.
Impact on the Community
The murders of Moholi Mohapi and Rebone David Sephaka left the Maseru Bridge community in shock and mourning. The victims were well-known in the area, and their deaths highlighted the ongoing challenges of violence and crime at border points.
Community leaders have welcomed the extradition of the suspects, expressing hope that justice will be served. “This case is a reminder of the need for greater security and vigilance at our borders. We thank the police for their hard work in bringing these suspects to justice,” said a local resident who wished to remain anonymous.
Broader Implications for Cross-Border Crime
The extradition of Tsiu and Walatsa is part of a broader effort to address cross-border crime, which remains a significant challenge for South Africa and its neighbours. The Free State province, with its proximity to Lesotho, is particularly vulnerable to criminal activity that spills over from across the border.
This case marks the third successful extradition under the Free State police’s ongoing efforts to combat cross-border crime. SAPS officials have indicated that they will continue to strengthen ties with Lesotho law enforcement agencies to ensure that criminals cannot exploit jurisdictional boundaries to evade justice.
SAPS Commitment to Justice
Sergeant Sinah Mpakane praised the dedication of SAPS officers and their Lesotho counterparts in securing the extradition. “This case showcases the professionalism and persistence of our investigators. It also highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing serious crimes,” she said.
Mpakane added that SAPS will remain committed to delivering justice for victims and their families. “We want to assure the public that no effort will be spared in holding those responsible for heinous crimes accountable,” she stated.
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