Polokwane – A 29-year-old naturalised South African citizen of Pakistani origin has been arrested in connection with the murder of businessman Tebogo Mothapo. The suspect is scheduled to appear in Mankweng Magistrate’s Court today, Wednesday, 22 July 2026.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the arrest represents a significant breakthrough in the case involving the 43-year-old businessman.
Mothapo was shot dead in Mankweng Zone 1 on 16 December 2025, at approximately 23:00.
Reports indicate that his cellphone went missing during the incident.
Brigadier Mashaba revealed that the Limpopo Provincial Tracking Team and the Provincial Investigation Unit apprehended the 29-year-old suspect at Ga-Mothapo, Tjatjaneng village on Monday, 20 July 2026.
“The suspect was found in possession of the deceased’s cellphone, which had been taken on the night of the murder,” the police spokesperson stated.
“The motive for the crime remains unclear at this stage, and a case docket has been opened and forwarded to the Provincial Office for further investigation.”
The suspect is expected to be charged with murder and possession of suspected stolen property during today’s court appearance at Mankweng Magistrate’s Court.
“Further arrests are likely as the investigation proceeds,” Brigadier Mashaba added.
