Newborn sole survivor of jealous arson attack

Sharon Mathala | Wednesday January 6, 2016 13:23

According to police, the then pregnant Tuelo Mokgalo and her sister, Kgalalelo were sleeping in their house in Block 3, in Gaborone on December 23, when Caroline Gwamolamba (38) and Bakang Godisang (26) allegedly attacked, and set it alight.

The deceased, from Thamaga, were rushed to hospital where the baby was delivered. The siblings died on December 31 and January 1.

According to police, Gwamolamba and Godisang allegedly paid a visit to the deceased’s home after suspecting that the former’s boyfriend, who is a soldier, had impregnated the Tuelo. The child is currently at the Princess Marina Hospital under observation.

According to the charge sheet, which was yesterday changed from attempted murder and arson to two counts of murder and arson, Gwamolamba and Godisang are charged with “acting in concert to murder Tuelo Mokgalo”.

Godisang, who appeared unfazed and calm, managed a few giggles as she covered her face from a throng of photojournalists. She pleaded for bail, but was denied by the presiding magistrate, Monashe Ndlovu after sub inspector, Onkemetse Modukanele said she could tamper with case proceedings.

“Also, the case is still fresh and families of  the deceased are still coming to terms with their loss. “This is a very serious matter. The circumstances have now changed, and she is now facing murder. It is too early to consider bail for her,” argued Modukanele.

The case continues January 18.