Court remands soldier in murder, hostage tragedy
Pini Bothoko | Wednesday July 19, 2023 11:47
The soldier, Captain Mogomotsi Sepopa has been formally charged with two counts of murder in an incident that sent shockwaves across the country on Monday.
In court proceedings, Magistrate Queen Moanga asked Sepopa if he had anything to say after his charge sheet and rights were read out to him. The accused soldier opted to speak less saying, “No, not yet. I will not ask for bail for now”.
He was reminded of his rights, particularly in choosing a lawyer.
Despite public interest in the case, the courtroom was not packed as would have been expected. The matter caught public attention after it emerged that a soldier allegedly shot and killed two women on Sunday, kept their bodies overnight in their home at the Village Garrison in Gaborone, and allegedly kept two others hostage.
According to a Botswana Defence Force (BDF) press release, the two hostages were rescued the following day (Monday). Following negotiations that lasted hours, Sepopa finally handed himself to law enforcement.
Bogolo, his wife of barely three months, and Moapare, a junior-ranking officer, were certified dead upon arrival at the Extension II Clinic.
The case continues on August 1 for mention.