Police in the North West have launched a manhunt for a 41-year-old man accused of killing three people, including his girlfriend, in a brutal attack involving a spade.
The suspect, James Mohajane, is wanted in connection with the deaths of Moipone Lefoka, her sister Esther Lefoka and Esther’s boyfriend, Tshepo Molekwa.
Three people found dead
According to North West police spokesperson Brigadier Sabata Mokgwabone Mathe, the three victims were allegedly last seen together at Molekwa’s home.
Their bodies were discovered at the house on Sunday morning.
Police allege that all three had been hacked to death with a spade.
“Police are searching for 41-year-old James Mohajane, who is wanted for the murder of his girlfriend, Moipone Lefoka, her sister, Esther Lefoka, and Esther’s boyfriend, Tshepo Molekwa,” Mathe said.
“It is alleged that the three victims were last seen together at a house belonging to Tshepo Molekwa. On Sunday morning, the bodies of the three victims were discovered at the house. They had allegedly been hacked to death with a spade.”
Suspect remains at large
Mohajane was not at the property when police arrived.
Investigators found his cellphone at the crime scene, adding another element to the investigation as detectives attempt to establish what happened before the three deaths.
Police have not yet established a motive for the alleged killings.
“The motive for the killings is still under investigation,” Mathe said.
Investigators are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the victims’ final movements and their relationship with the suspect as part of the probe.
Police warn public not to approach suspect
SAPS has appealed to anyone with information about Mohajane’s whereabouts to come forward.
Sergeant Nhlapo can be contacted on 078 918 7746.
Police have warned members of the public not to confront or attempt to arrest the suspect themselves.
“Members of the public are urged not to approach or confront the suspect, but to immediately provide information to the police,” Mathe said.
Case highlights concerns over violent crime
The killings have added to concerns about violent crime in South Africa, particularly cases involving violence against women.
The death of Lefoka, who was allegedly in a relationship with the wanted suspect, also places the case within the wider national concern around gender-based violence and femicide.
Police have not, however, confirmed the motive or formally classified the case as a gender-based violence incident.
SAPS says the investigation is continuing and officers remain focused on locating Mohajane.
Anyone who may have information that could assist police is urged to contact investigators as soon as possible.
