PREMIER MOKGOSI WELCOMES ARREST OF TWO SUSPECTS LINKED TO THE MURDER OF SOCIAL ACTIVIST – THATO MOLOSANKWE

Mahikeng: The Premier of the North West Province, Lazarus Kagiso Mokgosi, has welcomed the arrest of two suspects, aged 28 and 38, in connection with the murder of social activist Thato Molosankwe, saying this latest breakthrough is an important step towards ensuring that justice is served.

Molosankwe was killed almost two months ago, on 20 May 2026, after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds at his home in Lomanyaneng village, Mahikeng. Following the incident, the South African Police Service’s Provincial Murder and Robbery Unit launched an intensive investigation that culminated in the arrest of the two suspects.

Commending the South African Police Service and all law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation, Premier Mokgosi recognised their commitment to ensuring that those allegedly responsible for the heinous crime are brought to book.

“The arrest of these suspects sends a strong message that criminal acts will not be tolerated. While we welcome this breakthrough, it is deeply concerning that one of the suspects is also linked to the murders of two business owners in Mahikeng, and that both suspects are allegedly connected to a broader criminal network operating in our province.

“We wish to commend the detectives, crime intelligence teams and all members of the law enforcement agencies who worked tirelessly on this case and many others. Their dedication demonstrates government’s unwavering commitment to fighting crime and ensuring that justice prevails. We remain confident that the criminal justice system will now be afforded the opportunity to take its course,” said Premier Mokgosi.

Premier Mokgosi also expressed his appreciation to the Acting National Commissioner, Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane, the Acting Provincial Commissioner of the North West, Major General (Dr) Ryno Naidoo, and the MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, for providing decisive leadership and support to the law enforcement teams throughout the investigation.

He further appealed to members of the public to continue cooperating with investigators by providing any information that may assist in bringing all those involved in criminal activities to justice.

The Premier reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to working closely with law enforcement agencies and communities to combat violent crime and ensure that the people of the North West live in safe and secure communities.

ENDS