POLOKWANE – A plea bargain has been introduced in the case of Katlego Mosoma, who is charged with culpable homicide following the death of a schoolgirl during a drag-racing incident in Seshego.

This happened during recent pre-sentencing plea bargaining discussions between the state and the defence in a case involving the death of a schoolgirl in December 2023.

Mosoma, who was 20 years old at the time, is charged with culpable homicide after reportedly striking and killing Dimpho Monareng during a drag race with a friend in Zone 4 near Beach Front.

Dimpho, a passerby, died instantly. She would have turned 18 this year.

Mosoma admitted to the offence and was charged with culpable homicide. During plea bargaining proceedings that continued on February 5 before the Polokwane Regional Court, Mosoma’s legal representative applied for a lenient sentence.

Also read: Justice nears for Dimpho Monareng: Plea bargain to decide Mosoma’s fate

The defence argued that the deceased’s family acknowledged that the incident was not deliberate, citing previous interactions between the families.

These included meetings in which the Monareng family reportedly forgave Mosoma and accepted financial assistance towards burial arrangements.

This information was placed before the court as key mitigating evidence, highlighting the accused’s consistent admission of guilt. The development reduced the likelihood of the matter being elevated to a schedule five murder charge, which would have carried a heavier sentence.

Also read: Accused in drag race death of Dimpho Monareng to plead guilty

Meanwhile, the victim’s mother, Lerato Monareng, recounted receiving the devastating news while on her way home from work in Ladanna, shortly before arriving at the scene.

She said the tragedy permanently altered her family’s life, describing Dimpho as their “shining last-born” and leaving her with only one surviving child.

Victim support organisation Lentswe Laka Foundation representative Maletsema Ramokone said the organisation was relieved that the matter was nearing finality, reflecting on the challenges faced over the past two years.

“At some point, the investigating officer lost critical sketches and photographs showing the extent of Dimpho’s injuries. This evidence was vital in strengthening the state’s case,” Ramokone said. “Without it, the defence had applied for the matter to be withdrawn. We have come a long way.”

The case continues in the Polokwane Regional Court on Thursday.