Three accused community members released on bail over alleged criminal act
Ga-Molepane
On August 4th 2021, three members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) were released on bail by the Nebo Magistrate court after the appointed Investigative officer failed to present convincing evidence before the court.
The residents of Ga-Molepane in Ward 11 within the Makhuduthamaga Local Municipality were accused of burning down properties and barricading roads.
In support of their party members, EFF supporters gathered outside the magistrate court chanting struggle songs, and demanding the release of the party members.
According to branch party secretary Simon Maila, the arrested Rebone Matlala, Harry Matlala and Jane Mampe were all accused and arrested for arson and barricading roads.
Maila said the accused members were granted bail amounting to R1 000.00 each and scheduled to appear in court on the 11th of October 2021.
He however added that out of the community only three members were targeted and arrested which was unfair.
”Rebone and Harry were accused of burning down households while Jane was accused of burning down households and barricading road with heavy stones,” Maila explained.
He argued that it was an injustice for the police to arrest his members without any tangible evidence.
Maila said police threatened to accuse and arrest more suspects.
“According to the police there is a list of 17 people to be arrested. But what shocked us the most is the fact that the late Grey Masheou is believed to be in the list,” revealed branch secretary.
Maila said the police must pursue the opened inquest docket of the murder and kidnapping of the late Mateo.
The party members said there were very happy to see their members being released.
