MOCHUDI: Mochudi Magistrate Court has set the trial date for accused prophet Goitsekgosi Mojadigo who is facing five counts of defilement and rape.
Before Mochudi Magistrate Queen Moanga, State prosecutor Seeletso Ookeditse revealed that investigations have been concluded. “Investigations are completed in respect of defilement and rape charges. We have already prepared the summary of evidence on this matter,” Ookeditse said. She further stated that the State has also gathered its witnesses which include 17 witnesses against the accused but pointed out that the number is subject to change before the trial even commences. “The witnesses are likely to increase to 18 as we have others lined up and the medical reports will also be listed as part of the evidence against the accused. With that said, we would like to secure the trial dates,” she told court. With no objection from both the defence attorney Samuel Plaatjie and Mojadigo, Magistrate Moanga set the trial date for November. Meanwhile, the State prosecutor made an application to consolidate the charges that Mojadigo is facing to reduce them to five counts instead. The Magistrate permitted for the charges to be consolidated.
Mojadigo’s five charges are as follows; first count is of defilement of girls under 18 at Donga Francistown as he is accused of having raped a minor, second and third counts are defilement and rape charges respectively from Morwa village. While the fourth and fifth counts are defilement charges from Donga, Francistown and Morwa respectively. Mojadigo, who is accused of five charges pleaded not guilty to all the charges laid against him. With the trial date set for November, defence attorney made a request that the accused be granted bail as the investigations have been completed. Despite the investigations being wrapped up, State prosecutor Ookeditse maintained that Mojadigo might still interfere with the witnesses or repeat the same offences once given bail. Magistrate Moanga, however, stated that she is not convinced that the accused might repeat the same offences. “I do not see how when the fire is burning already could the accused 'hammer' again. So, I am not convinced if given bail the accused will continue and commit these offences,” she said. She, however, stated that she understands the seriousness and sensitivity of the matter and asked to be given time before delivering the verdict. “The bail ruling for Mojadigo is set to be delivered tomorrow at 0830 hours and the accused will be remanded in prison until then,” Moanga ordered.
