DEFENCE attorney Nhlanhla Mahlangu questioned the authenticity of Sergeant Keshi Mabunda concerning probable charges that could be added to the already existing accusations against Agnes Segomotsi Setshwantsho.
On Friday, 12 November, Setshwantsho appeared in the Mmabatho Magistrates Court for closing arguments of her bail application.
Setshwantsho (49) was arrested in November 2023 after she was linked to the murder of her niece, Bonolo Modiseemang.
She's also being investigated in connection with the murders of her husband and three children. It's said that after allegedly killing these victims, she went to claim from their insurance policies, which she obtained fraudulently.
She faces one count of murder, two counts of fraud and one count of defeating the ends of justice.
According to Mahlangu, Setshwantsho has been mistreated and the investigating officer in the case, Mabunda, has inflated facts when testifying against his client in court during the bail hearing.
He said if Setshwantsho remains detained, she will not receive a fair trial and that Mabunda's testimony and actions have already harmed her rights to a fair trial.
Mahlangu expressed concern that Mabunda brought up old cases that he said he was still investigating against Setshwantsho, saying Setshwantsho was only charged with one count of murder, despite evidence in court indicating that Setshwantsho allegedly committed more murders, including those of her relatives.
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“Her treatment since the day of her arrest has been nothing but unfair. This has also affected her right to consult with her legal practitioner.
“Now in making those opposing statements, the state is given every opportunity to bring whatever proof it has to highlight its opposition. They must go on to show that the applicant has failed to show exceptional circumstances,” he said.
He said Setshwantsho was suffering from type two diabetes and that she was a primary caregiver of her daughter Kgalalelo and her granddaughter.
“My client was refused medical care for days. She has been on insulin treatment for over 10 years and the Correctional Services officials took her out of her treatment, leaving her blood sugar level fluctuating, resulting in her being taken off insulin,” he said.
Setshwantsho faces a schedule six offence and plans to plead not guilty.
Mahlangu said he had Setswhantsho's passport with him and was ready to hand it to the relevant authorities. The bail hearing was postponed to Monday, 15 January to allow the state to prepare their closing arguments.
