Yesterday  Mothusi Tlelase (31), Sootho Liphoto (35), Kamo Phakoe (35) and Moabi Sesioana on Monday appeared before the Maseru Magistrate Court charged with the murder of Ralikonelo Joki.  According to a charge sheet, the accused contravened section 40 (1) of the Penal Code Act no.6 of 2010 read with section 40 (2) and section 26 (1) of the same Act.

It is alleged that they shared a common intention or purpose to pursue an unlawful act together and in the pursuit of such purpose, they shot and killed Joki during an incident that occurred at Lower Thamae on May 14, 2023.  The accused were advised of their rights to legal representation of their choice as well as their right to bail which is applicable at the High Court due to the nature of the charge they are facing. Meanwhile, three of the accused excluding Kamo Phakoe also appeared before the same court charged with two counts of murder.

It is alleged that they contravened provisions of the same sections of the same act as in the previous case. It is stated that they shot and killed Mothibe Mothibe and Thomello Ntsane at Mokema on May 20, 2023. The accused were in the same manner advised of their right to legal representation of their choice as well as the right to apply for bail. They were however advised that due to the naturof the offences they are charged with, they can only apply for bail at the High Court. 

The court was informed that both cases are still under investigations. The accused werthus ordered to appear before court again on July 04. According to section 40 (1) of the Penal Code Act no.6 of 2010, " Any personwho performs any unlawful act or omission with the intention of causing the death of another person, commits the offence of murder if such death results from his or her act or omission.