New breed of 'tsotsis' terrorises Mahalapye

Although it does not have major features commonly associated with urbanization such as the mines, and industrial plants, Mahalapye village has always been treated as a town. One of the residents said Botswana Railways (BR), whose headquarters are located in the village might have influenced this state of affairs. The company, which was in the past run in partnership with Zimbabwe Railways, built the shacks next to its railway station where it accommodated most of its employees from Mahalapye and its surrounding areas.

'Mafia', is one place commonly known for its daring tricksters starting from the time of the popular 'Pantsula' dance, and renowned dancers often came from this village. They used to travel for competitions as far as Lobatse, a southern town, which has similar features found in Mahalapye in the Central District.