Insurance murders: Rachel Kutumela and co-accused denied bail in Polokwane court
Bail has been denied for Rachel Kutumela and her two co-accused in a Polokwane murder trial, with the case postponed to November 4.
POLOKWANE – The former police officer, Rachel Kutumela and her two co-accused, Flora Shokane, and Anna Shokane were denied bail this morning in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court.
The trio will remain in custody after Magistrate Judge Godfrey Netshiodzwi ruled that their release would pose a threat to witnesses.
Kutumela, dubbed Rosemary 2.0 by the public, was arrested on October 10, 2024, following a lengthy investigation by Captain Keshi Mabunda on allegations that she fraudulently benefited from funeral, accidental and life police cover from various banks and insurance companies.
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She faces six counts of premeditated murder, 12 counts of fraud and defeating the ends of justice.
Read more: WATCH: Rachel Kutumela questioned over murder charges
Kutumela’s daughter Modjadji Florah Shokane (27) and her sister Raesetja Annah Shokane (47) were arrested on October 17, 2024, in Makgofe village, Moletjie for the alleged roles they played in the death of six people for a payout of R10m in insurance policy funds.
Read more: VIDEO: Multiple charges for Rachel Kutumela’s arrested family
Judge Netshiodzwi stated that releasing even one of the accused would be a danger, as they are alleged to have “committed the crimes working hand in hand.”
He added that the accused might already know the identity of witnesses, as they are related.
The magistrate also noted that the defense had not provided sufficient evidence to warrant the accused being granted bail.
Family members of the deceased were seen chanting songs outside the court, showing their relief and happiness over the court’s decision.
🎥 WATCH | Family and community members broke into song outside the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court today after former police officer Rachel Kutumela and her two co-accused were denied bail in an insurance murder case. pic.twitter.com/u7Qqy1pY8o
— Polokwane Observer (@PolokwaneObserv) September 3, 2025
The case has been postponed to November 4 for further investigation.
