MAN ACCUSED OF SETTING STEPSON ON FIRE

A 58-year-old man accused of setting his unruly stepson on fire following a family argument has been granted bail by Village Magistrates’ Court.

Bashi Ramaphoi was originally facing a charge of grievous bodily harm for the incident, which took place at the family home in Mmopane village on 2nd February.

However, this has since been upgraded to murder after the victim, Motlhatlhobi Ramaphoi, 40, died of his injuries in hospital on 16th February.

During the accused’s mention last Thursday, court heard that the trouble started over a ‘misunderstanding’ between Motlhatlhobi and his sister.

The younger man then stormed off, returning later in the evening to resume the fight. It was at that point that Bashi reportedly tried to intervene, an action that did not go down well with Motlhatlhobi.

“Didimala wena! ke tla go raga dithala! (You be quiet! I will kick your balls!),” he allegedly threatened his stepdad - a response police believe ultimately cost him his life.

Fuelled by the insult, a furious Bashi is said to have poured a flammable substance over Motlhatlhobi and set him alight.

The young man suffered severe burns and was admitted to Princess Marina Hospital where he succumbed to his wounds two weeks later.

During last week’s hearing, State Prosecutor Inspector Galekhutle Mashumba told the court investigations were almost complete and that they had managed to register witnesses’ statements. The prosecution did not oppose bail but proposed conditions be attached to the suspected killer’s freedom.

Ramaphoi was duly granted bail on condition he bind himself with P2, 000 and provide two Batswana sureties bound to the same amount. He was also ordered to report to Sir Seretse Khama (SSKA) Police every Friday.

For his part, SSKA Police Station Commander, Mpho Sebako told The Voice the matter was not reported to his office. He revealed his officers, acting on a tip off, visited the victim in hospital where they were able to question him.

The deceased is said to have been a troubled soul with a criminal record. However, when asked to confirm this, Sebako said they were not at liberty to check their records as they were focusing on his murder.

Meanwhile, Bashi is due back in court on 27 April for mention.