Four young males arrested regarding the gruesome killing and savage attack of two students enrolled at Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State are remanded in custody.
The suspected assailants Tumelo Monyane (27), Thabang Joseph Mabesa (25), Neo Pitso Molefe (23) and Thato Mahlomela (20) appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, 11 April. Col. Thabo Covane, spokesperson for the police in the Mangaung Metro region, said assailants face charges of murder and assault with intention to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).
He said the perpetrators were arrested on Tuesday, 9 April, shortly after hideous attack of the two students.
The incident ended with the death of Thato Molaodi (19), and the other Lerato Khobeni (20), hospitalised with crucial injuries.
“The four suspects were arrested following the reported incidents which occurred in King Edward Street, Willows between 05:20 and 07:00. The suspects allegedly attacked two victims, causing serious injuries to the 20-year-old and beating to death the 19-year-old,” said Covane.
The motive for the attack is being investigated.
Covane said both cases were opened and registered for further investigation at Parkweg police station.
The suspects are remanded in custody, and they are expected to re-appear in court on 18 April. Molaodi was a second-year BEd student majoring in Economics and Management Sciences and Khobeni, third-year BEd student majoring in Mathematics. The varsity has expressed shock regarding the savage attack of the two students.
“This is a great tragedy for the university, as these students embody the values and goals, we strive to instil in all our students. We offer our deepest condolences to the deceased’s family, faculty, and friends. This news has left the university community in a state of shock and heartbreak,” said Prof. Pamela Dube, Vice Chancellor.
She said the varsity was in close contact with families of the victims and was offering support.
“Despite arrest of the perpetrators of the heinous crimes by the police, the tragic loss of life is a heart-wrenching reminder of how our students’ rights are being violated,” said Dube.
