KLERKSDORP – A 64-year-old woman, Maseiso Kokama, and two male accomplices, Monokwa Malewu (26) and Moeketsi Lesuhlo (47), received life sentences yesterday at the North West High Court sitting in Klerksdorp for murder and attempted murder. The chilling details of the case, which unfolded on 1 April 2022, paint a picture of jealousy, betrayal, and cold-blooded violence.
The court heard that Kokama, consumed by anger and jealousy over her ex-lover's new relationship, orchestrated the murder of Nonzame Hondwana, the new girlfriend of her former partner, Dingaan Dlamini. Interestingly, the granny's ex-Ben 10 is 12 years her junior.
The attack took place at Dlamini and Hondwana's home during a dinner. A knock at the door heralded the arrival of Malewu, who, upon opening the door, shot Hondwana multiple times, killing her instantly. Dlamini was also shot and wounded in the attack.
The premeditated nature of the crime was central to the prosecution's case. The court heard evidence that Kokama had paid R20 000 for the hit. Malewu and Kokama were arrested on 8 April 2022 and have remained in custody since. Malewu, in a significant development, voluntarily confessed to his participation in the crime. Lesuhlo's arrest followed in February of the following year.
The sentencing, however, extends beyond this single incident. According to North West police spokesperson, Colonel Adele Myburg, the arrests of Kokama, Malewu, and Lesuhlo stemmed from a wider investigation by the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit.
The initial investigation, triggered by a call to Kanana Township police near Orkney, uncovered the body of Susan Ndondwana (54), who had been shot multiple times. At the same location, a 52-year-old man was found with a gunshot wound to his leg and was subsequently hospitalised. This led to the opening of murder and attempted murder cases.
Further investigation uncovered another body, that of Mpho Lomo (28), discovered in an open field near Kanana Township, also bearing multiple gunshot wounds. This resulted in the opening of a second murder case. All three accused were arrested on 8 April 2022, Colonel Myburg confirmed.
The sentences reflected the gravity of their crimes: Malewu received two life sentences for the double murder and a further seven years for attempted murder. Kokama received a life sentence for murder and an additional 15 years for conspiracy to commit murder. Lesuhlo also received a life sentence for murder and a further 15 years for conspiracy to commit murder.
Lieutenant General Sello Kwena, the North West Police Commissioner, extended his commendation to the Provincial Anti-Gang Unit for their diligent work in bringing these perpetrators to justice.
