NPA Extradites Accused Wanted For Farm Murder In Bonnievale

On 27 July 2022, three Lesotho nationals, Moeketsi Hlaudi, Kekekso Ntsabisa and Thabiso Ramollo, appeared at the Bonnievale Magistrates Court, following their successful extradition from Lesotho to South Africa. The state prosecutor, Adv Megan Blows, informed the court that the three accused face charges of murder, attempted murder, and robbery with aggravating circumstances as well as the unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition.

Adv Blows told the court that in 2019, the accused killed Kapteinsdrift farm owner, Jurie Wessels, on hon farm in Bonnievale. The accused, who performed seasonal work at the deceased’s farm, made use of their knowledge of the farm and planned to attack the farm owner and his wife. They tortured Wessels and his wife, by stabbing them, beating them and throwing boiling water at them.

Only one suspect was arrested following the gruesome crime. Ntabanyane Tlali is appearing at the High Court of South Africa: Western Cape Division for the crimes. In 2020, the NPA formally lodged an extradition request to the Kingdom of Lesotho, for the remaining accused, who fled immediately after the murder, to be delivered to South Africa to face the charges.

After a lengthy extradition enquiry which was held in Lesotho, the investigating officer, Sergeant Estelle Wessenaar, as well as members of the SAPS and Interpol were finally able to receive the accused and transport them over the South African border. At their first appearance Adv. Blows opposed their release on bail, pending their trial. The matter was subsequently postponed until 3 August 2022, for the accused to inform the court whether they intend to apply for bail. The NPA confirms that it will vehemently oppose any application for bail, pending the criminal trial.

The Director of Public Prosecutions in the Western Cape, Adv. Nicolette Bell welcomed the extradition and confirmed that the successful extradition was a result of a joint venture between the NPA, SAPS, Interpol, and the Department of Correctional Services. 

Note: The NPA’s media statements are available on the website: www.npa.gov.za

Issued by:

Eric Ntabazalila

National Prosecuting Authority

Regional Communications Manager

Western Cape

Tel: (021) 487 7308Mobile: 073 062 1222

Email: entabazalila@npa.gov.za