POLOKWANE – More arrests were made this morning related to the former police officer, Rachel Kutumela, over alleged insurance-related murders.

According to police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, police have arrested three suspects in Moletjie, a village outside Polokwane, of whom two are alleged to be the siblings of Kutumela and the other is a traditional healer.

Speaking to Polokwane Observer, Mathe added that another four suspects are to be arrested during the course of the operation, with investigating officer Captain Keshi Mabunda leading the operation.

“Police will execute seven warrants of arrest in relation to a R10 million insurance murder for payout scheme today. The arrests are linked to former police Sergeant Rachel Kutumela. All suspects are believed to have taken out life and funeral policies on 10 people who were later murdered. Three arrests have been made this morning. These include two brothers and a sangoma. More arrests are imminent,” she added.

Mabunda noted the suspects are set to appear at the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court tomorrow (Wednesday, March 11). Kutumela faces more than 30 counts, including nine counts of murder, money laundering, fraud and defeating the ends of justice.