A defence lawyer in the on-going trial of five men and a woman accused of the murder of a former manager of the Precious Garments factory, as accused investigating officers of tailoring evidence to suit their case.

Cross examining Detective Trooper Limpho Mathaba, one of the police investigators, advocate Molefi Ntlhoki maintained that earlier statements by detective Trooper Mathaba, Detective Inspector Makoae and Trooper Moepi about guns seized from one of the accused as well as one taken from the deceased’s home did not tally with the descriptions they gave before the court. 

Detective Trooper Mathaba gave a description of a 9mm pistol that was seized in connection with the crime committed, different from the one given by a security guard at Precious Garments factory. Even the 7.65 pistol seized from one of the accused, Kutoane Kori, is described differently by Detective Trooper Mathaba and Trooper Moepi. This gives the impression that two firearms were seized from Kori.

Advocate Ntlhoki noted that Detective Trooper Mathaba also gave the impression before court that he seized Kori's firearm as part of exhibits, but in his statement says he seized Kori's firearm as a prisoner's property, since Kori was an inmate at the Central Prison.

This led to the conclusion that the evidence given by the investigating officers had been tailored, advocate Ntlhoki said.

The case continues. Lesaoana Molomo, Thabiso Mothobi, Bokang Molongoane, Kutoane Kori, Molai Mosoaboli and Nokoli Hloloane are accused of murdering Mr. Mokheseng on March 21 last year at Qoaling.

The case is before Justice 'Maseshophe Hlajoane and the crown is represented by Ms. Lindiwe Maqutu, Mr. Mots'ei Tlali and Ms. Leonia Makoko, while the defence team is composed of Advocates Hae Phoofolo, Thulo Hoeane, Tahleho Molefi and Molefi Ntlhoki.

03 June 2005