FREE STATE – The Phuthaditjhaba Regional Court has convicted and sentenced Lekhotla Joseph Rafanyane (30) for the murder of a police officer.
On 9 April 2023, members of Bethlehem Serious Organised Crime Investigation received information about the killing of a police official in Botjhabela Village in Phuthaditjhaba.
The deceased was identified as Constable Mofokeng Mokoetla Daniel, stationed at Phuthaditjhaba Flying Squad. He was found lying on his back with a wound to his forehead and another wound in his back. Emergency Medical Services certified him dead on the scene.
ALSO READ: Three men sentenced to life over rape attacks after 15-year court battle
Subsequent investigations led to the identification of the suspects. One suspect, Lekgotla Joseph Rafanyane, was arrested and detained at Phuthaditjhaba Police Station and formally charged. The matter appeared before the Phuthaditjhaba Regional Court on several occasions while the accused remained in custody.
On Friday, 27 February 2026, the court found Lekgotla Joseph Rafanyane guilty as charged. He was sentenced to 20 years direct imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm.
The Provincial Head of the Hawks in the Free State, Major General Mokgadi Bokaba commends the investigating team and all role players for their dedication in ensuring justice for the fallen officer and his family.
