The North West High Court has granted bail to Atlholang William Mosiane (36), who stands accused of murdering his former girlfriend, Elizabeth Dimpo Motlodi, in March 2021.

Mosiane faces charges of murder and two counts of pointing a firearm. His release follows a successful appeal after bail was previously denied by the Tlhabane Magistrate’s Court in August this year.

Sivenathi Gunya, Communications Officer for the National Prosecuting Authority, says according to the case details, on March 25, 2021, Mosiane went to Motlodi’s residence looking for her.

“Upon his arrival, he enquired from her father about her whereabouts and was informed that she had not yet returned from work. He then left the premises. A short while later, the deceased’s father reportedly heard gunshots coming from his daughter’s shack. When he went to investigate, he allegedly saw Mosiane exiting the shack holding a firearm. Inside, he discovered his daughter lying on the floor with gunshot wounds.”

Mosiane was arrested and initially sentenced to life imprisonment. However, his conviction and sentence were later set aside due to procedural technicalities.

He was rearrested in August for the same offence and denied bail by the lower court before successfully appealing to the High Court.

Bail was granted in the amount of R5 000, with strict conditions. Mosiane must report to the Tlhabane Police Station every Monday between 06:00 and 20:00 until the conclusion of the trial, refrain from any contact, communication, or visits to the complainants or their premises, avoid interfering with witnesses, and notify the investigating officer of any change of address.

Mosiane is expected to appear again at the Tlhabane Magistrate’s Court on December 11 for the allocation of a High Court trial date.