Fifty six year old Mooketsi Tselapedi, who recently made headlines after he was flogged by Bakgatla royalty for allegedly stealing bridles, is reported to be in police custody in connection with stock theft.
Tselapedi is also said to have made a brief appearance before the Mochudi magistrate court.
Assistant Superintendent Kabo Bome confirmed to The Sunday Standard on Friday that Tselapedi had been remanded in custody following police investigations over allegations of stock theft. He added that, after appearing for mention to answer to charges of stock theft, Tselapedi will also appear on December 28th.
Indications are that Tselapedi was found in possession of about 17 goats which are suspected to have been stolen from Mediane cattle post in Kweneng district. There is high possibility that the case might be referred to Molepolole police station where the incident happened.
The police have also finished investigations into Tselapedi’s flogging, and the docket will soon be sent to the DPP. Tselapedi reportedly submitted a medical report detailing his injuries after the flogging. Last week, Justice, Defense and Security Minister, Ramadeluka Seretse, instructed the Botswana Police Service and the Attorney General to investigate circumstances surrounding the public flogging of the 56-year-old.
“I have instructed both the police and the Attorney General to investigate the circumstances around the alleged assault,” said Seretse at the time.
It is understood that some senior government officials are adamant that tough action should be taken against Bakgatla royalty.
