The total number of suspects arrested for the murder of Mogalakwena Municipality Councilors Vaaltyn Kekana and Ralph Kanyane in July 2019 now stands at eight.

Limpopo police this week arrested three additional suspects in Mokopane and Mookgophong.

Former ANC regional secretary Victor ‘Tolly’ Mashamaite (47) and Pastor Petros Mohlabisi (63) were arrested on Monday after careful investigations were carried out by a team that was put together shortly after the murders were committed on July 23, 2019. They were shot at point-blank range while seated in a vehicle.

The suspects appeared before the Mokopane Magistrate’s Court on charges of murder and conspiracy to commit murder. They will remain in custody and Mashamaite will appear again on March 14.

The defence argued that the manner in which the police arrested the two violated the provisions of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977 in that they were not shown or given a copy of the warrant of arrest. The police provided a warrant of arrest. The court adjourned until March 14 in order for the appointment of another presiding officer who will then have to adjudicate on the issue of the validity of the warrant of arrest.

A 48-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday and he appeared in court on Wednesday on two counts of murder and conspiracy to commit murder.

Meanwhile, Steven Mohlala (28), the fifth suspect arrested, appeared in the Mokerong Magistrate’s Court and was released on R5 000 bail.

Mohlala faces five charges of conspiracy to commit murder, two charges of murder, illegal possession of a firearm and illegal possession of ammunition.

His bail conditions include appearing and attending this matter until further notice, as well as having no communication with the state witnesses.

The matter has been transferred to the Limpopo High Court: Polokwane Division and will resume on March 10.

Limpopo police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe commended the team for their efforts and determination in pursuing any information provided on the matter to ensure that all suspects who played a role in these murders are brought to justice.

Police investigations are continuing.

Mogalakwena Concerned and Affected Community representative Baba Selomo said they have picketed since the first arrest.

“Mogalakwena has a history of political killings without arrests. So we are here hoping that the arrests will lead to revealing the truth about the political killings.”