17 years behind bars for woman convicted of former education executive’s murder

Polokwane – A third accused in the murder of former Department of Education executive Dr Malekutu Mehlape has been sentenced to an effective 17 years in prison by the Polokwane High Court.

Mahlodi Mathole, 45, was sentenced to 25 years’ imprisonment, with eight years suspended for five years, leaving her with an effective sentence of 17 years.

Mathole pleaded guilty to murder after entering into a plea and sentence agreement with the State in terms of Section 105A of the Criminal Procedure Act 51 of 1977.

The court also declared her unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.

Mehlape was attacked at his home in Mankweng Zone 1 on 28 December 2023. During the attack, his cellphone and an undisclosed amount of money were stolen.

A murder case was opened at Mankweng Police Station before the investigation was transferred to the SAPS Limpopo Provincial Investigation Unit. Sergeant Chuene Mokwele was assigned as the investigating officer.

According to SAPS, investigative work and intelligence-driven operations by the Provincial Tracking Team and Provincial Investigation Unit led to the arrest of five suspects.

The State successfully opposed their bail applications.

Mathole is the third accused to be convicted and sentenced in connection with Mehlape’s murder.

Mehlape’s daughter, Mologadi Mehlape, was previously sentenced to life imprisonment, while traditional healer Hlologelo Mogotlane was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

The cases against the remaining two accused, Daniel Molongwana and Tshepo Ranoto, are still before the court. Their matter was postponed to 2 November 2026 for trial.

Limpopo provincial commissioner Lieutenant General Jan Petrus Scheepers welcomed Mathole’s sentence and commended the investigating team for pursuing the case.

“This sentence demonstrates that SAPS Limpopo will continue to pursue justice for victims of violent crime, regardless of how complex the investigation may be. I commend the investigating officer and the Provincial Tracking Team for their dedication and the manner in which they followed the evidence until those implicated were brought before the courts,” Scheepers said.

“We welcome the substantial sentences already imposed in this matter and will continue supporting the criminal justice process until all remaining accused persons have had their day in court,” he said.