Thokozile Mnguni
Thato Molosankwe was shot and killed in a violent attack at his home in Lomanyaneng village in Mahikeng in the early hours of today.
Molosankwe, an activist, was targeted. He sustained multiple gunshot wounds during the incident. The attack has sparked outrage and concern in the community.
The police in North West have assured residents of Lomanyaneng village in Mahikeng that no effort will be spared in tracking down those responsible for the murder of the activist.
Police say Molosankwe was well known in the community as a committed, community-minded activist. He played an active role in supporting police initiatives aimed at combating crime and corruption. He also helped strengthen relations between the SAPS and local communities. He was also described as a traditional healer.
Acting National Commissioner of the SAPS, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, strongly condemned the brutal killing. She said maximum resources will be deployed to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended. She further assured the community that police will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice.
Meanwhile, Pastor Lesiba Kgwele of the Moral Regeneration Movement (MRM) in North West expressed shock at the killing. He described it as a deeply painful and tragic incident.
“We are saddened by this heart-wrenching incident. We wish to convey our deepest condolences to the Molosankwe family, the local business and informal sector, as well as the Men’s Sector he served with passion. This includes the broader community of Mahikeng,” said Kgwele.
Kgwele also raised concern about the recent surge in violent crime targeting the business sector in the provincial capital. He referred to the recent double murder of Manuel Gomez and his wife, Maria Gomez, affectionately known as the Totobolas.
He further noted that five suspects have already been arrested in connection with the Gomez killings. They are currently in police custody. They are expected to appear in court for a bail application, which the MRM says it will oppose.
Police have urged anyone with information that may assist the investigation to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tips via the MySAPS App.