Free State police celebrated a breakthrough in the murder case of Andries Mgoqi as a third suspect was arrested in Lesotho on Friday (29/1) and is awaiting legal process for extradition. Free State police have noted that Nkwebe Seatile and Tlotlisang Monyane have been linked to contract killings in the province. 

The arrest of the duo has led to a marked decrease in similar crimes, and more suspects will be arrested soon. “The progress made so far is not merely about the individuals who stood in court, but is part of a larger effort to dismantle a dangerous organised crime syndicate,” said Free State district commissioner Maj. Gen. Arthur Adams.

“This case is significant because of the nature of the crimes that these perpetrators have committed. We believe they were responsible for contract killings, where people are being targeted, and they were the ones who executed those killings. 

“Now, for us as the police, it’s not just important to have them face justice, but also those who instructed these heinous crimes to be executed. We are on the brink of bringing those who issued the instruction to also face the consequences of their actions.” 

Seatile and Monyane were arrested in February last year at a house in Wepener, a week after the former CEO was murdered.

Mgoqi was shot and killed outside his tavern in Bergman, Bloemfontein. It is alleged that while he was talking with a friend, an unknown African male pulled out a firearm and shot him while passing.

Bloemspruit police were called to the scene and informed that the suspect fled in a white Mercedes-Benz vehicle. Emergency personnel were called to the scene, and the victim was certified dead from gunshot wounds to his heart and body.

“We are very confident that we are on the cusp of dismantling this organised crime syndicate, said Adams. But there’s still a lot of work that is happening behind the scenes, and more of them are going to face the consequences of their actions.

“Ultimately, it is our hope as the police that we are going to bring closure for the family and loved ones of those who have lost their life due to the actions of these perpetrators.”

OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh