By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Agnes Segomotsi Setshwantsho, the woman accused of orchestrating the murders of several family members for insurance payouts, was denied bail by the Mmabatho Magistrates Court.
Setshwantsho is accused of murdering her niece, Bonolo Modiseemang, and claiming around R3 million from a life cover in Modiseemang’s name.
She was arrested in November 2023 on charges of murder, two of fraud and one of defeating the ends of justice.
Setshwantsho appeared in the Molopo Magistrate’s Court, where the magistrate made the ruling on her bail application.
Handing down the judgment, Magistrate Duane Spandiel emphasised the public outrage over Setshwantsho’s alleged actions.
“This is not acceptable and should never be tolerated,” he said.
He considered the safety of the accused, the gravity of the offenses, and the potential life sentence she faces.
Despite citing Setshwantsho’s medical condition, the court concluded that she is not a suitable candidate for bail.
The case was postponed to 28 March for further investigations.
The North West National Prosecuting Authority’s Henry Mamothame welcomed the court’s decision.
“We’re grateful that the court agreed with us that she failed to provide any exceptional circumstances for bail to be granted and shared the same sentiment that she may evade court and also has knowledge of who the state witnesses are – which may lead to interference.”
Setshwantsho also has a previous assault case from over two decades ago and another pending matter in Setlagole.