POLOKWANE – Police have made further arrests in connection with the suspected insurance-related murder scheme linked to former police officer Rachel Kutumela.

National police spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe confirmed that three persons were arrested in Moletjie on Tuesday morning. Two of the suspects are believed to be Kutumela’s siblings, while the third is a traditional healer.

Read more: 3 More arrested in Limpopo insurance murders case

Meanwhile, Johannes Shokane, Kutumela’s brother, appeared in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Thursday. His appearance follows earlier postponements after the court ordered that he be sent for mental observation.

His legal representative, Mukoma Maiwashe, requested that the mental health professional who evaluated Shokane be subpoenaed to testify in court.

“For professional reasons and for this matter to be properly addressed, the professional themselves should appear to assist the court. I want to avoid a situation where the state questions family members who cannot provide a professional recommendation to guide the court,” he said.

Shokane was previously referred for mental observation to determine whether he is fit to stand trial with his co-accused in October at the Polokwane High Court.

State prosecutor Adv Kgaogelo Lekoloane agreed to the request and asked for at least 14 days to allow the subpoena to be served.

The matter has been postponed to March 25, when the witnesses are expected to testify.