Polokwane – A 29-year-old naturalised South African citizen of Pakistani origin arrested in connection with the murder of businessman Tebogo Mothapo is expected to appear in Mankweng Magistrate’s Court today, Wednesday, 22 July 2026.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba said the arrest of the suspect was a breakthrough in the murder of the 43-year-old businessman.
Mothapo was shot and killed in Mankweng Zone 1 on 16 December 2025, at about 23:00.
His cellphone was reported missing.
Brigadier Mashaba said the Limpopo Provincial Tracking Team and Provincial Investigation Unit arrested the 29-year-old suspect at Ga-Mothapo, Tjatjaneng village on Monday, 20 July 2026.
“The suspect was found in possession of the deceased’s cellphone, which had been stolen on the night of the murder,” said the police spokesperson.
“The motive was unknown at the time, and a case docket was opened and transferred to the Provincial Office for further investigation.”
The arrested suspect is expected to appear before the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court today, Wednesday, 22 July 2026, facing charges of murder and possession of suspected stolen property.
“More arrests are expected, as the investigation unfolds,” said Brigadier Mashaba.
