Six Accused Sentenced for Mob Justice Murder

ONLINE EDITOR @KASIBC_AFRICA 

Six Accused Sentenced for Mob Justice Murder

FREE STATE - The Thabo Mofutsanyana District Executive Detectives, in collaboration with the National Prosecuting Authority, secured heavy sentences against six accused who brutally murdered the late Moratwe Mofokeng of Bohlokong in June 2024.

The case was heard at the Bethlehem Regional Court before Magistrate Matshaya, with Prosecutor Mr. Jaco Scholtz representing the State, and Detective Warrant Officer Bobo Hlabi of the Thabo Mofutsanyana District Detective Service leading the investigation.

On 11 November 2025, the Bethlehem Regional Court sent a strong message to the community that crime does not pay , particularly in matters of mob justice, which has become prevalent in some parts of Bohlokong where community members take the law into their own hands instead of involving the police.

The following accused were convicted of murder (mob justice) and sentenced as follows:

Eric Mabe (26), Tshepo Mofokeng (25), and Thabang Moloi (24) — each sentenced to 18 years’ direct imprisonment.

Thabo Mdledle Shabangu (28), Mosuwane Mokoena (29), and Lefu Patrick Shabangu (30) — each sentenced to 25 years’ direct imprisonment as they were regarded as the ringleaders.

On 29 June 2024, the deceased, Moratwe Mofokeng, was chased from a local tavern by the accused. He attempted to hide on the roof of a nearby shack, but the accused discovered him and began pelting him with stones. The deceased jumped off the roof and tried to flee, but was caught. He was then assaulted with bricks, bottles, booted feet, and knives.

Some community members attempted to intervene but were threatened with violence by the accused. The victim later succumbed to his injuries.

The South African Police Service strongly condemns acts of mob justice. Taking the law into one’s own hands is a criminal offence and leads to devastating consequences for both the victim’s and the perpetrators’ families.

No individual has the right to take another person’s life, even if they suspect that person of a crime. We urge all community members to report crimes to the police and allow the justice system to take its course. Let us resolve our differences through dialogue and lawful means, not violence.

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