UL students demand no bail for murder accused
Victor Kgomoeswana, the university's spokesperson, acknowledged the limitations in their control over off-campus student security, emphasising the advice given by student affairs to leave campus before or at 06:00 for safety reasons.
POLOKWANE – University of Limpopo students gathered at the Mankweng Magistrate’s Court last Tuesday to advocate for bail to be denied for the three individuals accused of the murder of their 24-year-old fellow student the previous Sunday.
At around 05:00 on the day of the incident, university security personnel witnessed Thapelo Seabi (23) and Mack Maphakga (25) confronting the deceased and his friend at the university’s second gate, or Gate Two.
The altercation escalated into a stabbing as the victim was apparently targeted for robbery while returning from a campus social event.
Although the security personnel managed to apprehend Seabi and Maphakga, the third suspect fled the scene on foot.
The third suspect handed himself over to the police on Monday (May 13) accompanied by his parents.
Read more: Three men arrested in connection with UL student’s murder
The victim was laid to rest on Saturday.
Student Representative Council President, Khutšo Mamabolo, reiterated the call for no bail during the appearance of the third accused, Koketšo Seabi, at the same court on Monday.
Victor Kgomoeswana, the university’s spokesperson, acknowledged the limitations in their control over off-campus student security, emphasising the advice given by student affairs to leave campus before or at 06:00 for safety reasons.
He stressed that the intention is not to assign blame, but rather to ensure student safety after social events: “I’m sure if you are done partying, the first thing you want to do is go home or wherever you might be able to rest”.
