- state fears he may influence, intimidate and interfere with witnesses
Investigators of a rape incident involving suspended Botswana Patriotic Front (BPF) specially nominated Councillor, Mmusi Jerry and a Standard Six pupil fears that the accused, as prominent person in the community may influence, intimidate and interfere with witnesses once released on bail.
Forty-two-year-old Jerry accused of sexually abusing the a 12-year-old girl on January 29 2026 in Makobo village, re-appeared before Masunga Magistrate’s Court where he was further remanded in custody.
Inspector Oamogetswe Gaboutlwelwe had pleaded for more time to put measures in place to protect and minimise the effects of the alleged abuse, on the minor. He argued that the matter has become of national interest and there is need to protect the interests of the child and her family too.
“Due to the huge interest this incident it has attracted from the media and the community, there is a high possibility of removing the child from Makobo to a place of safety. It is an option we and the social welfare workers are considering.”
“Members of the media have visited the family of the victim; members of the community keep pouring daily in large numbers to the household. And we are not sure whether it is to sympathies with the child or what”, noted the Investigating Officer.
Gaboutlwelwe added that the accused person is no stranger to the victim or her family as their homesteads are not far away from each other. She said the 11-year-old girl is still shaken and traumatized by the incident noting that the survivor and her family have been undergoing counselling.
“The minor cannot stay or go outside the house alone. She is afraid. Last week she resumed school, and is being accompanied to and from by her mother. She scared of meeting the perpetrator and also feels uncomfortable because people and other children are starring at her in an unusual way”, highlighted the police officer.
She added that they are also yet to record statements from two other witnesses, all who are residents of Makobo.
Inspector Gaboutlwelwe requested Court to give them an extra two weeks to wrap investigations and map the way forward in whether to relocate the child elsewhere.
“Remanding the accused longer, we are also looking out at his safety as the police were here also to protect his life from the angry society, which can take the law into its hands. The community is angry and emotions are high”, emphasised the officer.
Remanding the accused, Magistrate Thapelo Buang summoned the parents of the pupil to court to air their voice opinion on whether he should be granted bail or not. The matter returns to court on the March 5th.
