POLOKWANE – The 11th suspect, Robert Shokane (41), in the insurance murder case linked to former police officer Rachel Kutumela, appeared at the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Friday (March 13) after he handed himself over to the police yesterday (Thursday, March 12).

This after SAPS national spokesperson Athlenda Mathe urged the suspect to hand himself over to the nearest police station, adding that police will soon circulate his photos.

Shokane is charged with 47 counts including nine murder charges, fraud, money laundering and receiving proceeds of criminal activities.

He will join his co-accused in custody and will appear on March 25 for further investigation and possible bail application.

When asked by Judge Godfrey Netshiozwi if he has a legal representative, Shokane noted he communicated with his lawyer, who was not present at the appearance, and had advised him to hand himself over to the police and meet him in court.

“My lawyer said I should hand myself over and he will meet me in court. I am surprised he is not here but I will not be needing legal aid as I have a private lawyer who will be representing me,” he said.

Netshiozwi postponed the case for further investigation and possible bail application along with the six accused that appeared on Wednesday (March 11).

The six accused are Thomas Shokane, William Shokane, David Kutumela, Damaris Selepe, Benedictor Selepe and Martha Ruiters.

The other accused in the case are Rachel Shokane-Kutumela, Flora Shokane, Anna Shokane and Johannes Shokane.

Rachel Shokane-Kutumela, Flora Shokane and Anna Shokane are set to be tried at the Polokwane High Court from October 3-5 this year.

Read more: WATCH: 6 Appear in court over Limpopo insurance murders