the monitor

Molepolole unrest: Urgent attention on missing person cases

The unsettling events in Molepolole last Thursday, stemming from the suspected ritual murder of taxi driver Phenyo Jakoba, depict a community on the edge. The ensuing chaos, including the burning of houses, the village Kgotla shelter, and road blockades, reveals deep-seated frustration over the perceived negligence in missing person cases, especially those ending tragically.

From Jakoba's mysterious disappearance on November 9 to the grim discovery of his remains at Mosinki Lands, a gap in the response mechanisms of the police and village leadership has been laid bare. The community's anger is evident, seen in the attack on Bakang Masole, the man found driving Jakoba's taxi and the main suspect, and the subsequent riot. Residents express discontent, citing a troubling trend of missing persons cases often ending in death, allegedly for ritual purposes.

The authorities' failure to address these concerns has left residents feeling betrayed, leading to the destructive outburst after Jakoba's funeral.


Editor's Comment
Justice delayed is trust denied

Batswana who marched peacefully for 'Justice for Tshepi' demanded answers. They have now received a detailed account of police investigation and a promise that the file is with the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP). The real test is whether the state now keeps its word without further prodding. In his address, the minister asked the nation to trust the process. He spoke of rigour, not neglect, and pointed to 10 months of...

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