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In a solemn session at the Free State High Court, Justice was delivered to the families of the victims of the brutal crimes committed at Lismore Farm in the Kestell district. Kamohelo Motankisi (35), will serve seven life sentences plus an additional 35 years for the massacre of seven individuals in July 2022. This verdict comes after a thoroughly investigated case led by Detective Captain Alfons Kokonyana, who, along with his team and other internal units, such as Bethlehem Crime Intelligence and K9 Unit, played an instrumental role in solving the case.
The trial held on October 24, 2024, in the Bethlehem Magistrate Court saw Judge Celest Reinders presiding, with Prosecutor Antonnette Ferreira presenting a compelling argument against Motankisi. The conviction resulted from diligent police work including digital evidence from social media, where Motankisi incriminated himself posting photos with a firearm stolen from the farm post the murders. Acting under Judge Reinders, 19 witnesses testified alongside the meticulous forensic evidence gathered by the police ballistics team, painting a stark picture of the crime.
The heinous acts claimed the lives of six women and one male, ranging in age from 18 to 57 years old, several of whom suffered from multiple stab and gunshot wounds. Additionally, two women were subjected to sexual assault in this senseless act of violence.
Motankisi faced a total of 12 charges including housebreaking with intent to rob and robbery, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and the aforementioned murders and sexual offenses. His accomplice, Tseko Lerato Selepe, had previously been sentenced to 30 years of direct imprisonment by the same court on March 13, 2024.
The court recognized the relentless pursuit of justice by Detective Captain Alfons Kokonyana. Lieutenant General Baile Motswenyane, the Provincial Commissioner of the police in the Free State, commended the entire investigative team for their unwavering commitment to the case.
After being sentenced, Motankisi addressed the court, expressing his remorse and apologizing to the families of the victims he wronged, though it is evident that the scars left by his actions will remain long after his apology.