Suspects in Leqhashasha murder appear in court

Mohloai Mpesi

Four suspects accused of killing local radio presenter Ralikonelo Joki appeared in court for the first time on Monday.

Mothusi Tlelase (31), Sootho Liphoto (35), Kamo Phakoe (35), and Moabi Sesioana (32) we appeared before Magistrate Peete Molapo.

Tlelase, Liphoto, Phakoe, and Sesioana stand accused of contravening the provisions of section 40 (1) of the Penal Code Act No.6 of 2010 read with 40 (2) and 26 (1).

“In that upon or about May 24, 2023 and at or near TÅ¡enolo FM, Lower Thamae in the district of Maseru, the said accused sharing common intention or purpose to pursue an unlawful act together and in the pursuit of such purpose did perform an unlawful act or omission with intention of causing the death of Ralikonelo Joki, such death resulting from their act or omission,” reads the charge sheet.

It adds: “The said accused did thereby contravene the provisions of the code as aforementioned.”

Tlelase, Sootho and Moabi were further charged for the murder of Mothibe Mothibe and Thomello Ntsane.

The prosecution alleged that the trio shot at Mothibe and Nrsane until they succumbed to gun wounds.

“You have the right to have a lawyer of your choice to see a bail for you at the High Court,” Magistrate Molapo said.

J0ki who was widely known as “Leqhashasha” was gunned down on May 14, 2023 after his radio programme “Lehlokoana la tsela” loosely translated as “through the grapevines.”

According to the prosecutor, advocate TÅ¡episo Hlojoeng, the investigations are still ongoing, thus the accused will appear again on July 4, 2023.