By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Judgment in the bail application of the woman accused of murdering her family members for insurance benefit has been reserved until Friday, 19 January.
The 49-year-old, Agnes Setshwantsho faces one count of murder, two of fraud, and defeating the ends of justice.
The state concluded its closing argument in the Molopo Magistrate’s Court in Mahikeng on Monday, where it opposed Setshwantsho’s release on bail.
The accused’s lawyer rebutted the state’s claim that Setshwantsho is a flight risk, arguing that, as a person living with diabetes, her health would be affected if she remains behind bars.
However, the prosecution remains adamant that, if released, the accused has the propensity to evade trial.
“We discovered that she received a new passport. We believe the seriousness of this case compels her to stay behind bars until the matter is completed,” said National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Henry Mamothame.
Mamothame added that Setshwantsho’s claim that the correctional centre where she is being held does not have facilities to store her diabetes medication has been debunked.
“We dispelled that by calling a nurse from the correctional facility where she’s being detained, who said they had all the facilities for a person who is facing her medical condition. Further, it came to our attention that her health has improved.”
During his testimony, investigating officer sergeant Keshi Mabunda told the court that he had applied to exhume the remains of Setshwantsho’s policeman husband, her son and two daughters.
Mamothame said the NPA has not received any evidence on these allegations. However, they will be advised by the investigating officer if any additional charges should be considered.
“We know that investigations on the matter that she’s being charged with are at an advanced stage and may be concluded at any given time.
“We want to clear out the confusion that on all these other matters that are under investigation, they are not in any way preventing trial if investigations are concluded,” Mamothame added.
Setshwantsho’s alleged murder spree for insurance payouts, came to an end after relatives alerted the police.
The murder charge stems from claims that she poisoned her niece, Bonolo Modiseemang in August 2022.
Last month, the court heard that the North West woman took out more than 50 insurance policies for various relatives with a number of insurance companies.
She was remanded in police custody until Friday, when the magistrate will hand down the judgment.